The couple, who live in Rynpark One, met in 1953 and were married on October 8, 1955.
Helen said Willem was convinced by his sister, Marie, to approach her, because he was very shy and not really interested in her.
“He finally got the courage and asked me out,” she added.
They later were married in court and had a breakfast to celebrate.
Both Helen and Willem were both born and raised in Benoni.
After they wed, they moved into a flat in Victoria Avenue, until they welcomed the birth of their daughter, Petronella Swanepoel, and moved in with Willem’s parents in their house in Farrarmere.
Two years later, they welcomed the birth of their son, Hannes Roets.
Helen worked at Chafkins Shoe Store for 10 years, then at South African Airways and at South African Breweries.
Willem worked at a number of companies, including the SA Post Office.
He also obtained a BCom psychology degree, studying part time while working.
The couple said marriage is not easy and that there are many ups and downs, but they were able to overcome the challenges.
“No marriage is a bed of roses; there are plenty of thorns, but when you serve the Lord, he carries you through,” the couple agreed.
Willem and Helen have different personalities.
“I have a strong personality and he is more quiet,” said Helen.
“When we would fight, she would keep arguing and I would keep quiet, then later on we would communicate about the issue and we would forgive each other,” said Willem.
Helen said her love for her husband has never changed.
“I tell him every day that I love him, even through all the difficulties,” she added.
The couple’s advice to young people is to forgive and never to go to sleep without apologising after an altercation.
Willem still makes tea for Helen every morning – which is one things Helen loves about him – his good nature.
“I love her personality, she’s soft by nature and she is very understanding,” said Willem.
They both describe their 60 years of marriage as a fruitful experience and say there is nothing they would change.
They celebrated their anniversary with friends and family.
You may also be interested in: Still going strong
