PROFILE: Richards Bay couple celebrate diamond anniversary

SIXTY years seems like a lifetime.

For Richards Bay residents Hans and Ethne de Groot, it is a milestone achievement in their loving marriage.

‘People expect fireworks and lightning strikes throughout a marriage but, while that does come into it, it is not the most important part,’ said Ethne.

‘Faithfulness, unselfishness, integrity and complete trust are the keys to a long-lasting, loving marriage.

‘They also say you should marry your best friend. I married mine, and Hans is still my best friend.’

The couple moved to Richards Bay from Durban in 1989 for Hans to embark on a career as a Training Officer with Bell Equipment.

Ethne held a research post at the University of KZN in Durban at the time, but with no such post in Richards Bay, she undertook a variety of jobs over the years.

‘My most satisfying job was with CV Personnel, where I trained young Zulu women for office work.’
Ethne’s passion for the job shone through with 60% of her trainees finding suitable employment.

‘We have always found Richards Bay residents of all races to be kind, honest and tolerant,’ said Ethne.

Both in their 80s, Hans and Ethne have always been involved in their community, having helped shape numerous community groups.

Encapsulating the deep love they have felt for each other from before their wedding on 6 April 1957, is the final line of a poem Ethne wrote for Hans two years ago, entitled Love.

‘My husband, my darling, my best friend, my lover, for all these years we have cherished each other’.

Their advice to young married couples, or those considering marriage?

‘Marriage is not something that should be rushed into, think long and hard first before making that commitment.’

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 072 069 4169

Instagram – zululand_observer