Robert “Soupy” and Julie Neumann

ESCANABA — Robert “Soupy” and Julie (Russell) Neumann of Escanaba recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

The couple was wed on March 30, 1968 at Memorial United Methodist Church in Gladstone. Their original attendants were Joseph Vogel, best man; Alice Ojala, maid of honor; David Sorg, groomsman and Robin Young, cousin to the bride and bridesmaid.

A celebration was held by the couple, their children, and grandchildren at the American Legion Post #71 Hall. Many traveled from long distances to join the celebration.

In 1987, Robert retired as an E-7 Platoon Sgt. after 21 years of service. On June 17, 2005 Robert retired from the city of Escanaba after after 40 years.

He served on the board of directors for the United Northern Credit Union for 16 years, was a union steward for public works employees and a Teamster representative. He has bowled in bowling leagues for the last 50 years and does so two nights a week.

Robert loves to travel, especially on his motorcycle, which he has used to travel for 53 years. He has traveled extensively, including to other countries and Hawaii.

In addition, the avid motorcycle rider has made trips out west, east, south. He is a 22-year member of the Recyclist Motorcycle Club.

Julie was a crossing guard and playground supervisor at Escanaba schools until 1993.

She then worked in the deli at Elmer’s from 1993 until 2001 and retired from the desk clerk at the Lincoln Host Motor Inn in April of 2005. Julie is also a member of the Recyclist Motorcycle Club.

She was a den mother and ran the youth bowling program at the Bowl-a-Rama from 1978 to 1993. Julie was a room mother every year her children were in grade school.

In addition, she volunteers for Community Action’s RSVP program, is an avid bowler and loves to travel with Robert on the motorcycle.

The couple enjoys camping and winter travel to destinations together. They reside in Escanaba.

Robert and Julie have four children: Robert (Laura) Neumann Jr., Richard (Rebecca) Neumann, Randy (Heather) Neumann and Rene (Scott) Glinski. They are also grandparents to 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.