They haven’t lived in Escalon their entire lives – arriving here about 15 years ago – but their impact in that short time earned John and Marylyn Salvin this year’s recognition as Senior Mr. and Mrs. Escalon.

Feted in a Tuesday afternoon luncheon, July 10 as the kickoff event for the 2018 Park Fete celebration, the couple has been married for 55 years. They have three children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

John is originally from Oakland and Marylyn was born in Belvedere, Illinois.

Both list their grandchildren and great-grandchildren as being among their top interests and they enjoy going to Strawberry for gatherings with family and friends, having a cabin there for the past 25 years.

John was an Oakland firefighter for 30 years and he also raced off road motorcycles and took part in various bucket brigade competitions.

Together, they have had several businesses and at one time had 14 rental houses as well as flipping homes.

Marylyn, who describes herself as a big A’s fan, also lists gardening as one of her favorite relaxing pastimes and loves growing roses. She was also very active with drug abuse prevention programs when they lived in the Bay Area.

Arriving in Escalon about 15 years ago, John joined the Lion’s Club shortly after their arrival and has been instrumental in the Autumn Cruise car show for several years. He has served as president of the organization and is a prior ‘Lion of the Year’ honoree. Marylyn coordinates the collection of items for the huge raffle drawing at the annual September car show and they have also been involved with Rim Fire relief efforts, volunteered at the Senior Center and assisted on multiple community projects.

Honored at the luncheon with a number of proclamations and awards, John and Marylyn Salvin were also in the Saturday morning Park Fete parade. Neither rode in their ’56 Chevy pick-up but, rather, walked alongside handing out candy and waving to the crowd.