ALTONA -- Ronald and Arlene Patnode of Ellenburg celebrated 50 years of marriage Sept. 22, 2008, at a surprise celebration at the QWL building in Altona. The party, attended by about 125 guests, was planned in their honor by their daughters, Mrs. William (Cindy) Gadway and Mrs. Basil (Kim) Matthews of Ellenburg Depot.

Ronald Patnode and Arlene Buck were married Sept. 21, 1957, in St. Joseph's Church in Dannemora.

Along with two daughters, they have two granddaughters and two grandsons. A son, Ronald Allan, died earlier. Absent was grandson, PFC William (B.J.) Gadway, who is serving on active duty in Iraq.