A Love Story

We drove down a dusty road, slowing several times before finding the “right spot.”  There it was, the canal headgate where they were engaged more than 50 years ago.

It was during the 50^th Anniversary weekend celebration in 1981 that we took the drive.  They got out of the car and to my surprise they walked out onto the cement crossing and sat down right there with the canal water underfoot.  At the time, she was 73 years old and he was 75.  I guess being there made them feel young again, for it was right there where he had asked for her hand in marriage. 

I treasure hearing the story and I giggled as he pulled her close and gave her a smooch.   I didn’t often see that kind of physical display of affection from my grandparents. 

She described in detail how she was working as a teacher, he was a farmer.  They met at church.   Her father walked her down the aisle, it was perfect.  Musical selections included “At Dawning,” and the Lohengren’s Wedding March.  The popular song “I Love You Truly” summarized how they felt that day and through the years as they raised two children and five grandchildren.

They were married 30 Aug 1931, the local newspaper had a lengthy description of their autumn wedding “Golden glow and autumn foliage, carrying out a beautiful yellow and green color scheme, decorated the church for the elaborate occasion.  The church was crowded to capacity by friends and relatives, including many out of town guests. The bride was very attractively gowned in a white silk crepe.  She wore a veil to match and carried pink rose buds.”

They enjoyed 62 years together before her passing.  When I asked them the secret of a long marriage she said “marry your best friend.”

I have intentionally omitted names so that perhaps this will give you some ideas to ask your parents or grandparents about their love story.