KEEPING a promise that they made to each other six decades ago is what Peter and Gerda Van Oers believe is their secret to 60 years of marriage.
The couple were registered at the Magistrates Court in Brielle, Holland and held a wedding ceremony at St Antonio’s ABB in Holland on 9 February 1957.
They moved to South Africa 52 years ago and lived in Bloemfontein for 21 years and in Durban for more than 15 years. They recently moved in with their son, Frans Van Oers, who lives in Dawncliffe.
They said like any couple, they have experienced both ups and downs in their marriage but have always worked through it. They are thrilled to have a big family now, consisting of four children, 12 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Peter worked as a marine engineer and sailed for seven years and only came home once a year. Gerda worked as a nurse in the maternity ward in a hospital in Bloemfontein for five years and spent the rest of her time at home.
Highway Mail chatted to the couple to find out about their marriage.
What quality do you admire in each other?
Peter: I admire her one track mind. She doesn’t always agree with me, and often gets her own way.
Gerda: I admire his ability to study for years and he is still studying now.
What is your most memorable moment?
Peter: I once arrived in Belgium after a year away, I saw my wife with a pram, with my first born, Yvonne. She was 14 months old at the time and it was my first time seeing my baby.
Gerda: When my second child, Frans, was born, I was so happy that Peter was with me and I didn’t have to experience the birth alone again.
If you could do one thing different, what would it be?
Peter: I would have waited at least five years before we got married because I feel we were married a little too young.
Gerda: I would have preferred to have settled down in one place instead of moving around 15 times in South Africa.
Future plans?
Both Peter and Gerda agreed that every day is a new day, so they live and appreciate each day, one day at a time.
Complete the sentence: I am am most annoyed when…
Peter: I’m most annoyed when she gets her own way against my wishes.
Gerda: I’m most annoyed when he disapproves of my friends.
The couple plan to celebrate their special occasion with their family at a big bash in March, when they are all around as most family members live overseas.
