Bob and Anna Mae Tanner of Wayland have been selected as grand marshals of the 2018 Wayland Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 8.
Chamber Executive Director Denise Behm said, “The Chamber of Commerce is honored to annually select the grand marshals to lead the 40th annual Chamber Christmas Parade, which started in 1978. Mr. and Mrs. Tanner are longtime residents of Wayland and true pillars in our community. We couldn’t be more excited to have the Tanners as our grand marshals.
“The Tanners are best known for their humble servanthood attitude and willingness to helping others, whether it is at their church, for city events, helping shovel a driveway, pick up groceries, or help with yard cleanup.”
Their journey began in 1960 when they were married at Dorr Christian Reformed Church. A lifelong resident of Wayland, Bob was born in Wayland just blocks from his current home on Maple Street that he and Anna Mae have shared for the past 54 years.
The Tanners are well known and respected community members volunteering with the area food pantry and at the voting polls. They have been members of Wayland Christian Reformed Church since 1964, serving in many volunteer roles. Bob has performed janitorial duties, served as a deacon, an elder and a cadet leader. Anna Mae served as a Gems leader for 19 years.
Bob and Anna Mae both worked for Harding’s Market in Wayland. Anna Mae worked there for ten years and Bob retired after working 28 years and now works for Kubiak-Cook Funeral Services. Bob also has volunteered at various chamber events, including the annual golf outing.
The Tanners have raised four children in Wayland and have 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
The Tanners will be leading the Christmas Parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at in downtown Wayland
Two of the best and nicest people I have ever known. Bob always has time to say Hi. I look forward to seeing them at the start of the parade.