Mary was 17 years old and Gary was 19 years old when they met. They met at a church in Milwaukee, St. Francis of Asissi. They had special meetings for people who wanted to follow a spiritual life according to St. Francis. They went on mostly group dates. When we started dating, we were allowed to see each other once a week, but they did some phone calling in between. They were married July 31, 1951. Gary left for Korea 5 days later, and was there 9mo. Then came back to Ft. McCoy in Wisconsin for 3mo. They could see each other much during those 3mo. either. They never fought the first year of their marriage! Their first child was born the following May. She was the first of 11! They have 2 girls and 9 boys. All 11 are now married. They have 46 living grandchildren, 2 are in heaven. 16 of the grandchildren are now married and the 30th great grandchild is due in May. They have become a Holy Nation! There have been many ups and downs throughout but they are incredibly thankful to God for how He has blessed them and their family.

Marriage Advice: They believed in the vows they made and worked hard to make their marriage last. It took a lot of faith and trust in God to have a happy 71 1/2 years together!