Jim and Marian Heil of Marissa celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Saturday, August 25, 2012, with a dinner at the Marissa Presbyterian Church’s Fellowship Center. Jim and the former Marian Weshinskey were married on August 25, 1962, at this same church of which they both are lifelong members.

Jim retired in 2001, after 16 years as Director of the Beck Career Center. He also served as System Director for the OKAW Regional Vocational System for 19 years and retired from that position in 2009. He served as principal of the Marissa High School from 1970 - 1984. He is active in his church and community. He is a golf enthusiast and after more than 30 years, he still enjoys playing ice hockey every Monday night.

Marian retired from the Marissa Elementary School after 29 years in various grades. She was the Learning Center Director, the Gifted Director, and began the Accelerated Reader Program in connection with the library. She is active in her church and enjoys the arts.

They have 2 children: Stephen Heil and Stephanie Heil Neace. Stephen married Denanne Savoka. They have 2 children, Sierra and Derek and live in Edwardsville, IL. Stephanie married Bruce Neace. They have 3 children, Eric, Evan and Kyle and live in Mascoutah, IL. God has truly blessed us these past 50 years.