Prestons named grand marshals for Rosalia Battle Days celebration

Dave and Ruth Mary Preston, both graduates of Rosalia High School, will be grand marshals of the Battle Days parade Saturday at Rosalia.

They were married in 1957 and have always made their home in Rosalia. He lettered four years in baseball, but never turned out for the more rugged sports because he weighed 130 pounds when he graduated. He said that he didn’t gain weight until he got a good cook.

Ruth Mary recalls several special teachers that encouraged her along the way toward wanting to be a teacher. She attended a year at Cheney but left school when she and Dave were married.

Dave worked as an engineer for the Milwaukee Railroad and retired after serving for more than 22 years. Following that he joined Ruth Mary as custodian for Rosalia schools. As a team they worked there for 27 years. Ruth Mary’s custodial services also included the Methodist Church, the post office and the bank. Dave was in the Washington Air National Guard for eight years.

One of their vivid memories was the year of the ash when the Rosalia gym was home to more than 300 people. Dave was on duty for 56 hours while Ruth Mary entertained people in their home.

The Prestons’ five children, Connie, Nancy, Vernon, Melanie and Mary, were active in virtually every school activity. Dave and Ruth Mary recall fond memories of the many hours they spent supporting their family. Now pictures of their children and their spouses with 14 grandchildren are proudly displayed in their home.

Ruth Mary was a 4-H leader, a Campfire leader and very involved with the community floats. Dave was Daddy Advisor for Rainbow and went on to serve on the state board. They have been Grange members and are still actively involved in their church.

Over the years Ruth Mary has enjoyed decorating cakes. Dave enjoys fishing and traveling. With all of the family packed into the station wagon they have traversed the U.S.