HENRY and Esmé Pretorius, who now reside in Queenshaven Retirement Village, celebrated 75 years of marriage on Monday, April 3.
Henry (97) was born on December 25, 1919 and Esmé, on April 15, 1923. They say they have seen incredible changes in the world throughout their lives. “We never thought back then man would land on the moon,” they laughed.
They met when they were at school together and were next door neighbours. “Our families knew each other and we also attended the same school, Helpmekaar High School in Braamfontein.”
They were married in 1942 at the Dutch Reformed Church in Braamfontein. Henry worked for the post office in the telephone system and Esmé was a short-hand typist for Lever Brothers.
They have two daughters: Louise, who is married to Peter Venter, and Elaine, who is married to Jan de Kock. They also have three sons and four grandchildren.
When asked what advice they would offer to young married couples, Henry said, “Always love each other,” and Esmé said, “Learn to endure more than you ever intended.” The loving couple have lived in Queenshaven for 29 years.
They enjoyed a small tea party with a few of their Queenshaven “family” to celebrate this momentous occasion.
Also Read:
For free daily local news in the south, visit our sister newspapers Alberton Record, Comaro Chronicle, Southern Courier and Get it Joburg South Magazine.
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email our offices on cvdwalt@caxton.co.za, juliem@caxton.co.za or luckyt@caxton.co.za
Add us on WhatsApp today! Alberton Record: 060 644 5264 Comaro Chronicle: 079 427 8074 and Southern Courier: 079 404 5789.