James R. and Helen (Waite) Burlett celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 12 with an open house at their Dunkirk home. It was hosted by their daughter Amanda and husband Roger Cooley, grandsons Jordan and Alex, as well as Paula Cooley of Dunkirk.
Approximately 50 friends and relatives attended the celebration. A special greeting and gift was received from Helen's sister, Priscilla and Donny Lawson of Perry, Ga.
The 1962 military wedding was held at Chaute Air Force base in Rantoul, Ill., and was officiated by Friar Maris Di Lella, OFM with James' sister Mary Ann (Burlett) Metro as bridesmaid and Airman Frederick Benoit as best man.
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James R. and Helen Burlett
James served many years with the United States Air Force and then retired from Liftech Handling Co. in the Buffalo area.
Helen held many positions as they were stationed throughout the U.S. and three years in the country of Turkey. Recent employment includes substitute teaching in many area schools and she was later employed by Occupational Therapy and Hand Rehabilitation Services in Dunkirk.
Helen's mother, Anna Carpenter Waite of Cassadaga, served the punch and white iced cake with raspberry filling along with James' sister, Mary Ann. Relatives from Wellsville, Jamestown and Dunkirk were in attendance.
