HOPEDALE – A former Hopedale resident recently marked a remarkable milestone as Lee Roy “Russ” Draper and his wife, Betty Jean Draper, celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.
The couple commemorated the occasion with a dinner celebration on June 22 at Casa Grande, Arizona, where they now reside. Russ, 91, and Betty, 88, were married on June 22, 1956, in Seattle, Washington.
Russ grew up in Hopedale as the only son of William and Winifred Draper. Throughout his career, he served as a jet mechanic in the United States Air Force before working on aircraft for Boeing. He later spent many years as a truck driver before retiring.
Over seven decades of marriage, the Drapers have built a life together that has spanned military service, aviation, family, and retirement in Arizona.
Family members say the anniversary celebration was a fitting tribute to a couple whose enduring commitment to one another serves as an inspiration to those around them.
Congratulations to Russ and Betty Draper on 70 years of marriage and best wishes for continued health and happiness.
