Old Love: High school sweethearts celebrate 46th anniversary

Geoff and his wife, Riette, celebrated their 46th anniversary on February 8, 2021.

February 8, 2021

Lebogang Sekgwama 1 minute read

Geoff and his wife, Riette, on their wedding day.

To love and to be loved is a blessing that Geoff Jooste could not help but share. Geoff and his wife, Riette, celebrated their 46th anniversary on February 8.

The high school sweethearts met on January 13 in 1967. “While we were in Dawnview High School, I knew she was my future wife. We got married in Alberton and lived in Germiston all our lives until last year. We are also members of St Andrews Presbyterian Church,” said Geoff.

The couple has two children and two grandchildren. “We share so many interests and still treat each other as new friends. It is important to respect and stand by each other in tough times.”

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He advised young people on how to ensure a strong marriage. “Never go to bed angry at each other. Working through challenges makes you stronger and respect grows. We have a strong faith and that is the biggest thing that keeps us together,” said Geoff.

Family is the pair’s next big thing in their lives. “Even though we are thousands of miles away from our grandchildren we still try to talk on video calls every day.”

According to Geoff, marriage is like an investment, the more attention you invest, the better the returns. He advised couples to spoil each other as much they can.

“It’s the little things you do for each other that keeps the spark in your marriage. Stay as healthy as you can and dress up daily as if you care. And always show your love and tell your partner that you care.”