By Pat Mueller Feature Writer Mae Schwanke lightly slaps her husband’s knee on his 6-foot-3-inch frame in a way that demonstrates affection and playfulness in their 71-year marriage. Mae, 93, and Elmer, 94, Schwanke sold their home in Eagle River about a year ago and chose assisted living as a good option for them. With the help of their children, Sandra who lives in Texas, and Robert of Ohio, the couple explored their options for assisted living in Wisconsin and Michigan. The Schwankes are extremely happy with their choice of the Grace Lodge Assisted Living facility in Rhinelander. When investigating options for their new living arrangement, they concentrated on residential community apartments. .... Read the entire article here

Working on a jigsaw puzzle is one of many activities Elmer and Mae Schwanke enjoy at Grace Lodge. Other activities include Bible study, crafts and games.--Photo By Pat Mueller