Joseph F. “Joe” Gatz was born May 26, 1929, on a farm west of Union City, the second child of and first son of John and Dorothy (Wartchow) Gatz. He attended school in Union City, graduating from Union City High School in 1949. In 1951 he was drafted into the Army and served in the infantry in Korea. He was discharged as a sergeant in 1952. On May 19, 1956, he married Laura Jean Jurey.

I’m in transition from journalism to the counseling profession, and I’m working part time in a mental health clinic.

That position qualified me, as a health-care worker, for the first tier of the COVID-19 vaccine. I was able to secure an appointment at the Canadian County Health Department Clinic at the Yukon Community Center Dec. 31.

It was a dreary, chilly day. The line extended through the parking lot. I was glad I was bundled up with a heavy coat, gloves and a stocking cap.

Helen Louise Singleton, 83, went home to be with her Savior Jan. 13, 2021. Helen was born Nov. 29, 1937, in Banner to William and Rose Dolezal. She was married to Fred Singleton on Sept. 3, 1960, in El Reno. They shared 60 years of marriage together.

Helen graduated from El Reno High School in 1956. She attended Oklahoma State University where she studied education. She was employed at Oklahoma Retailer Publishing Company for over 50 years where she did the accounting for Fred’s newspaper.

Martin and Lanoy Peters of Okarche are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.

Martin C. Peters and Lanoy A. Bolin were married Jan. 27, 1961, at Bible Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Ervin officiating.

Peters graduated from Okarche High School in 1956 and Lanoy graduated from El Reno High School in 1962.

Peters was employed with OG&E for 36 years, started his own roofing business and retired to farming. Lanoy worked in banking for 36 years and has also retired to farming.