Orland Park Couple Celebrates 72nd Wedding Anniversary at Silver Cross Hospital
“It isn’t every day that the hospital has couples that have been married for 72 years. It’s a first. We’re making history,” said 92-year-old Ruth Rohlfs of Orland Park.
Married on October 8, 1949, in Chicago, Ruth and her 96-year-old husband, Bill, celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary with their two daughters, Debbie and Diane, from Ruth’s hospital bed at Silver Cross Hospital.
When asked what the key is to being married for 72 years, Bill said, “Every Friday, we would have a drink together. Ruth would have a martini and I would have a Manhattan.”
The couple met at work at Illinois Bell. They both worked in the accounting department. Bill worked there for 40 years, and next year he will be retired for 40 years. He said he didn’t miss a day of work in the first 32 years! Bill is also a WWII vet who served in Germany.
They lived on the south side of Chicago after they were married and now live in Orland Park. They have two daughters, Debbie and Diane, 2 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. They love travelling and the Cubs!
Ruth’s daughter bought her a tiara that says “Bride,” which she wore with pride. The caregiving staff surprised the happy couple with flowers for Ruth and a boutonniere for Bill, a giant mylar “Forever and Always” balloon, card, picture frame and a gift bag, while songs from their wedding day played in the background. Following a prayer from Silver Cross Chaplain Barb, everyone raised their glasses for a sparkling apple cider anniversary toast!
