They met in Posen when they were just teens. While both were on a walk with their friends, the two groups met up. As they walked, Art stopped to pick some wildflowers from the side of the road for Marge and their friendship began.

They married on the morning of June 24, 1950, at St. Casimir Church in Posen, with Fr. Casimir Szyper officiating. After a drive to Alpena for wedding photos, they celebrated with a dinner for family and friends at the home of Margaret’s parents in Posen, followed by a reception at the Posen Chamber of Commerce Hall with music, dancing and another light meal.

Joining them for this daylong celebration were Maid of Honor Anita Wozniak and Best Man Robert Kapalla, along with their attendants Phyllis Polaski, Florence Polaski, Martha Buk, Wilbur Konwinski and Dave Milostan. Carol Budnik was the flower girl.

They honeymooned at Niagara Falls, returning to their first home together in Hawks to begin their wedded journey. They moved to their next home in 1956, to Posen, where they raised their six children: Ann (Bruski), Chris (Gryniewicz), Cyndi (Bruski), Robert, Kathy (Hubert) and Norm. They are blessed to still reside there, after 64 years. Their family expanded to include 16 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren (with another one on the way), and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Arthur and Margaret Budnik, present day

Art loved music and played saxophone in a band for many years and is a member of St. Casimir Church choir and the Knights of Columbus. Marge loved her flower gardens and was devoted to her family.

Both of them volunteered for many years at the Posen Potato Festival. Art retired from Abitibi and Marge from St. Casimir School in 1990. They remained active, giving their time and talent to family, friends, the church and their community. They also enjoyed time at their cottage at Grand Lake, where Art continued to water ski into his 70s.

A small gathering of family and their wedding attendants was held this month to celebrate this wonderful occasion.