Impactful pair named 4th of July Grand Marshals by friends and neighbors

   Although they recently relocated from Longville’s Wabedo Lake, residents Anita and Dennis Zaske have spent over 50 years visiting and enjoying what our community has to offer its residents.  

   “I first visited Wabedo Lake in 1955,” Anita recalled. “But we began staying at a cabin on Wabedo Lake regularly from 1971 through 1984 when we built our own,” Dennis interjected. Through their decades in the Lakeland, they’ve made a variety of friends thanks to the community groups they’ve participated in. “That’s what Longville is all about: friendships.” 

   In 1994, the Zaskes joined St. Edward’s Catholic Church, providing one of their main sources of community. After thoroughly establishing their sense of place in Longville, Anita and Dennis joined VFW Post 772 in 2002. Dennis served as Commander for seven years while Anita held the position of Auxiliary President off-and-on for 13 years. “What made our time with the VFW so memorable to us are the friends we’ve made and relationships we get to maintain,” Dennis said. “Events we hosted were made better because of the others we were with.” 

   In addition, the Zaskes were passionate snowmobilers, working with Longville’s Snowmobile Club (Anita as Treasurer and Dennis on the Board of Directors, grooming and trail clearing) and Chamber of Commerce. 

   “We loved helping at things like Memorial Day, 4th of July… all of the events we could attend to accomplish a goal with other volunteers; those were our favorite,” Anita remarked. “Turtle Races were always fun to go to with the VFW,” Dennis added. He and other members routinely set up, help operate, and clear Main Street every Wednesday. “I want to return some days to lend a hand!” 

   Other hobbies for Dennis include hunting and other outdoor sports. Anita has enjoyed paint classes with Tom Kutcheid and spent the past few years quilting with Loving Hands during winter months. 

   “We were pretty excited to be named Grand Marshals for 4th of July,” Anita exclaimed. “It was kind of a surprise as we’ve already migrated to Brainred; we’ve reached a point where 5-minute access to supplies and resources is a priority.” Although it was a tough decision, they ascertain how easy it will be to visit Longville and have guests to their new home. “We’re not too far from the town we love!” Dennis concluded. 

   Before residing in Longville, they lived in Anoka. Dennis worked at Deluxe Tech Printers in Roseville and Anita raised their three children; their daughter, her husband and three children live here in Longville. Their two sons reside in Anoka and St. Paul with their families (Anita and Dennis have eight grandchildren total). 

   The Zaskes cherish the time they’ve spent in Longville and relationships they’ve developed. “We want the community to know that we couldn’t have accomplished the amazing things we were a part of without other devoted volunteers. Thank you for all you’ve taught us through the years.”

   Anita and Dennis plan to spend the 4th of July visiting Longville with family and friends.