Tookes named 2022 parade marshals

Greg and Susan Tooke moved to Ekalaka in 1976. With a degree in veterinary medicine, Greg had always wanted to return home to set up a vet clinic. Susan was dubious but was in lust at the time, and would go anywhere as long as it was with Greg. They have been together 53 years!

So with McLean, who was about 6 months, they moved to the old Nellie McLean house in Ekalaka. He did dog spays on the kitchen table and cat spays on the ironing board. All large animal work was done with the client's pickup pulled up to the door of the house.

In 1977, their second son, Kelsy, was born in Ekalaka. Leonard Mumedy sold Greg some land two miles north of town and a vet clinic was built by Jock Schneider. There are many stories told over the 42 plus years about 'Dr. Death.'

In 1982 Susan started to use her teaching degree. Kelsy was in her first class in Ekalaka. She thrived on teaching five-year-olds and taught the same grade level for 25 years. She claims it is so rewarding to see some of those early kindergartners as parents with children of their own. She retired after 30 years of teaching in Ekalaka.

As far as community service, Greg served on the school board, hospital board and the airport board. He was a certified pilot and used his plane for vet calls and helped the community when they needed an eye in the sky.

Both Greg and Susan were EMTs for a number of years. Greg was also a teamster and helped with organizing Carter County wagon trains over the years. Helping Mac establish Alkali, Inc. was another highlight in Greg and Susan's lives. He hasn't disappointed them.

As for Susan...she served the community with the right side of her brain; coming up with anything to entertain the community. Yes, the lust has worn off but she's never regretted moving to this very special place they call home.