Diamond couple rings in 60th anniversary

THIS year uMhlanga residents, Virginia (83) and Derek (84) Veale, will be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.

The couple met when Derek was 19 years old at a fundraising ball for an orphanage in Johannesburg. They were both set up to go on a double date; Derek was matched with Virginia’s sister, while Virginia was matched with Derek’s friend.

However, Virginia caught Derek’s eye and he spent the next two years unofficially courting her before he proposed. “She had the most beautiful and delicate hands and feet. Those were some of the first aspects I loved about her. She is also amazingly patient and a peace keeper. My father also adored her. Over the years we grew fond of each other,” he said.

At the time Derek, who grew up in Emmarentia, worked on the stock exchange, while Virginia, who hails from Bramley, was employed as a secretary.

Two years after their engagement the duo wed on 30 April 1955 at the Anglican Church in Parkview, Johannesburg. The couple had three children and now have six grandchildren.

Thirty-five years later the Veales moved to uMhlanga. “This was our holiday home. We would stay here every year during the Christmas holidays. It holds so many memories for us. It is a blessing to be able to celebrate our 60th here,” said Derek.

After working on the stock exchange for 11 years, Derek was then employed as a regional manager for an American soft drink company, also for 11 years, and then worked at his father’s business before retiring. As a mother Virginia sought out day jobs so that she could be home in the evenings for their children.

When asked what their success to a long and lasting relationship was, they replied, “A mutual respect is important. As well as giving each other their space, and to apologise after an argument.”