NEW COLUMBIA -- Mr. and Mrs. Robert Vanatta, of New Columbia, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 20 by re-affirming their wedding vows at Lincoln Chapel United Methodist Church in Laurelton. Officiating was the Rev. Jonathan West. Approximately 52 guests were in attendance.

Attending Mrs. Vanatta as maid of honor was Alexxi Kozicki, granddaughter. Bridesmaid was Cassandra Vanatta, granddaughter, and flower girl was Gabrielle Letteer, granddaughter.

Attending Mr. Vanatta as best man was Gene Vanatta, son, and Joshua Vanatta, grandson.

Guest book and welcoming hostess was Patti Vanatta, daughter-in-law. Joshua Vanatta, grandson, gave a program of Christian music, playing the guitar before the wedding. Sharon Vanatta, daughter, and Pastor Jonathan West, were soloists. Traditional wedding music was played by Marcia West.

Acting as honorary mother for the wedding was Lois Pick, of Laurelton, who had baked their original wedding cake and has been a very dear friend. The wedding and reception were hosted by their children and grandchildren. The reception was held in the church social room.

The couple were married April 20, 1958, at St. Peters United Church of Christ of the White Deer charge, RR3 Lewisburg, by the Rev. Thomas B. Musser.

Mrs. Vanatta, the former Joanna Kester, is the daughter of the late Halbert and Mary Kester, of New Columbia. She is retired from Acme-Bilo Market.

Mr. Vanatta is the son of the late George Sr. and Sarah Vanatta, of Millmont. He is retired from Acme Market, and is a local auctioneer.

The couple have two children, Eugene and his wife Patti Vanatta, of Watsontown, and Sharon Vanatta, of New Columbia. They also have four grandchildren, Alexxi Kozicki of Milton, Joshua Vanatta and Cassandra Vanatta, both of Watsontown, and Gabrielle Vanatta, of Milton.