Couple celebrate fifty-nine joyful years of marriage at Colchester Care Home

Ruth Clarke, resident at Colonia Court Bupa Care Home, and her husband, John, recently celebrated a momentous 59 years of marriage surrounded by their nearest and dearest.

The couple celebrated their special day with their two children, Robert and Kate, and their five grandchildren. Carers at Colonia Court arranged a delicious meal at the local Rose and Crown Pub which was reminiscent of their first date.

The day was especially memorable as John finally received a wedding ring after 59 years of being unable to wear one, due to his engineering career. It was a very special moment during the meal when the ring was blessed by Father James from St James the Great church, in Colchester.

When the couple were asked about their long and prosperous marriage, Ruth commented: “The secret to a happy marriage is tolerance, forgiveness and of course a lot of love!”

She added: “We had a lovely day celebrating our anniversary at Colonia Court. I cannot wait for more happy years together. We had a beautiful meal at the local pub, and it was of course topped off with the blessing of John’s new wedding ring.”

Ruth and John met in the West Country, Calne, in September 1961, when John was working for Ruth’s father as a script reader. Their first date consisted of a walk in Clacton and a meal together. Since then, they have lived in Colchester and raised their children, Robert and Kate.

Ruth has resided at Bupa’s Colonia Court Care Home since June 2022 and she continues to take part in lots of the activities the home has to offer, including shopping outings, as well as tea and cake. John visits Ruth regularly, and as they are both committed church goers, Father James joins John in his visits to Colonia Court once a month.

Jiji George, Home Manager, concludes: “We were so pleased to play a part in Ruth and John’s anniversary celebrations. It is so important to us at Colonia Court to celebrate resident milestones. We really look forward to these events as they bring such joy to everyone in the care home.”