Frankie James and Wanda Casto

Frankie James and Wanda Casto of Buckhannon are celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary on Monday. They were married in 1953 at the Lorentz Methodist Church Parsonage in Upshur County.

Mr. and Mrs. Casto have two children, Denise “DeeDee” (Don) Weese of Buckhannon, and Chris (Tammy) Casto of Elkins. The couple has six grandchildren, Nicole, Wendy, and the late Shane Weese; and Zack, Aaron and Dustin Casto. They have 13 great-grandchildren.

Frankie “Jim” is from Upshur County and Wanda (Welborn) is from Archdale, North Carolina. They met while Frankie was a sailor in the U.S. Navy. He served aboard the Destroyer Escort Class Ship, USS Waller during the Korean War. They corresponded as pen pals until they met in person when Frankie traveled to North Carolina during a weekend liberty after returning from Korea in February of 1952.

Mr. Casto retired from Columbia Gas Distribution/Mountain Gas Company in 1985 as a clerk after 28 years of service. He also retired from the Department of Highways in 1992. From 1970 to 1987, Frankie was well known as the Sunday afternoon disc jockey on WBUC. His easy listening radio show had many loyal fans.

Mrs. Casto was a stay-at-home mother and was very active in her church activities. She taught seminary for 15 years at the LDs Church. She also researched and studied genealogy extensively.

Cards and well wishes may be sent to the couple at 13 Gum Street, Buckhannon, WV, 26201.

Congratulations on 70 years of marriage.