Ed's 75th Surprise Birthday Party

On August 5th, Ed Grafton's wife, Willa, had a surprise birthday for this retired GSC forestry professor.  Ed and I came to teach at Glenville State the same year - 1972.  Ed is a master at his craft and he and Willa are great friends.

It was a grand occasion with a multitude of folks in attendance.  Willa certainly knows how to throw a party.

Judy is looking on as Willa and colleague and friend, Joe Hickman, strike a most lovely pose. 

Joe and wife, Seva, and their grandson, Issiah, are pictured below.  These folks have been our friends throughout the years.  We have shared many adventures and stories together.

Several of our former students arrived to celebrate the 75th.  Mark Casto and his family- wife Tonya, Kyle and Lauren - live and work in Kanawha County.

Sam Cowell, Chris and Saran Crum, Paul Jarrell are folks who will always be in our memories.  Chris and Sarah (newly weds!) live in Raleigh, North Carolina.  Sam and Paul work at Carnifax Ferry Battlefield State Park near Summersville, WV

Lady Liberty was the center of attention.

Willa had wonderful food catered for this occasion.  Yummy!

The cake was so unique and celebrated Ed's adventures.  Ed traveled on several occasions to Africa.  He has many interesting stories to share about these trips.

Guess the helmet was not edible.

Happy Birthday, Sir Ed!