Couple Celebrates 35 Years of Marriage

High school sweethearts reflect on a lifetime of love and support through life's ups and downs.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Looking back at an old photograph from their youth, a couple reminisces about their 35-year marriage journey - from meeting on a golf course, to overcoming challenges like breast cancer, to building a cherished life together filled with simple daily routines. Their story is a testament to the power of unwavering love and commitment.

Why it matters

This heartwarming story highlights the enduring nature of true love and the importance of cherishing each moment in a lifelong partnership. It provides inspiration for readers who may be navigating their own relationship journeys, demonstrating that with patience, understanding and a shared commitment, couples can overcome obstacles and cultivate a fulfilling, lasting bond.

The details

The couple, Gary and the narrator, first met on a golf course in Marin County, California in 1990 when they were both in other relationships. After breaking things off with their previous partners, they reconnected and quickly decided to get married, tying the knot just six months later. Over the decades, they have weathered life's ups and downs together, including the narrator's breast cancer diagnosis in 2013, for which Gary provided unwavering support and care. Now in their golden years, they continue to find joy in their daily routines and cherish the life they have built.

  • The couple met on a golf course in Marin County, California in 1990.
  • They got engaged in 3 months and married 6 months later on January 5, 1991.
  • The narrator was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013.

The players

Gary

The husband, who has been a loving and supportive partner to the narrator for over 35 years.

The narrator

The wife, who reflects on her long-lasting marriage to Gary and the cherished life they have built together.

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What they’re saying

“Looking at that old photograph with our smiles, fit bodies and comfortable closeness, it's easy to look back and long for what was. We're older, slower and have scars to prove we've been through a few damaging moments. As we age, and transition to a new way of being together, I'm grateful every day for knowing, until we take our last breaths, we have each other to get through whatever may come.”

— The narrator (The Nugget Newspaper)

The takeaway

This story of a couple's enduring love and commitment over 35 years of marriage serves as an inspiring reminder that with patience, understanding and a shared dedication, couples can overcome life's challenges and build a truly fulfilling partnership that only grows stronger with time.