So he said, “They shocked me,” when he was asked April 1 to be the grand marshal for the 85th Annual Marysville Strawberry Festival parade.

“I never even dreamed it would happen,” he said April 4. “I still feel like the new kid in town.”

He said he feels that way because he grew up in Colorado, and when he “gets around other old-timers,” they know who is related to whom, and he doesn’t.

But Cage does know a lot about the history of Marysville. Through his own interest and research, he is now known as the city’s chief historian. He is president of the Marysville Historical Society and ran the old museum on Third Street, and is spearheading the new museum on Armar Road.

Cage said he hasn’t been that involved much with the Strawberry Festival over the years. He has ridden on the Masonic Lodge float, and also has marched with the American Legion. Along with those organizations, he’s also been a member of both the City Council and Planning Commission.

Strawberry Festival officials had fun surprising Cage with the announcement. They asked him to come to lunch at Fanny’s Restaurant because they wanted to ask him some questions about the history of Marysville.

He said Carol Kapua of the festival told him the first question is an easy one, requiring just a yes or no answer – with no not being an option. Will you be the grand marshal?

“It floored me. My mouth flew open,” he said.

Cage was so surprised he joked that since it was April Fool’s Day he was afraid they might call later and say never mind.

His wife, Ethel, is glad her husband is being recognized for all he’s done for the community.

“She’s happier than a clam at high tide,” Cage said.

He said sometimes she’s called Mrs. First Lady because she’s married to the historical society president.

“Now she’s called Mrs. Grand Marshal,” Cage said with a chuckle.

He said she also is being honored. Both will ride in a convertible in the Grand Parade June 18 at 7:45 p.m.

“She’s going right along with me,” he said. “Everything we do together.”