CHENEYVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — While dads across the nation were celebrated for Father’s Day on Sunday, one couple in Vermilion County marked a milestone of a different kind.
Donald and Betty Barron, who met during their teenage years, have spent their lives together through thick and thin. Sunday commemorated 75 years of shared adventures, family vacations, and a lifetime of love.
“We’ve done pretty good,” Donald said.
The two lived a block apart in their hometown of Lewistown, Missouri. Their love story started over a game.
“We just all played together and I didn’t know he was even alive until I started going,” Betty said. “He was just a kid to play ball [with].”
The couple wed when Donald was 17 and Betty was just 16. Their family has since grown to include two sons, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, reflecting a rich and full life.
“Every year just slipped by and it seems like it goes so fast,” Betty said. “I didn’t think I’d ever live to be 75 let alone be married that long.”
The couple spends a decent time at home between doctors appointments and hospital visits. Now in their nineties, their growing family is never shy to help out.
“At first it was kind of hard to accept it, but now it’s gotten to be a routine and we know what they do and accept it,” Betty said.
The two said the key to more than seven decades together is simply staying in touch with one another as kids, jobs and other changes can cause couples to drift apart.
“If you’re having problems, talk it out and never go to bed mad,” Donald said.
Teamwork also plays a part in the marriage milestone.
“We just always did everything together, I mean, yard work we did it together, he helps me with house,” Betty said.
Their biggest tip, though, is to give a kiss, share a hug and tell your family often how much you appreciate them.
“I love you,” Betty said as she held onto Donald’s hand. “I love you too,” Donald replied back.
Donald and Betty were not alone in celebrating an anniversary. Their son, David, and his wife, Pam, were married 51 years ago Sunday.
The family planned to celebrate with dinner and cupcakes.
