Bandon High sweethearts celebrate 65th wedding anniversary

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Story Published: Nov 1, 2007 at 1:05 PM PDT

By Azenith Smith

North Bend - A 50th or 60th wedding anniversary isn't too uncommon, but you don't often hear of a couple enduring 65 years together. And that's exactly what a South Coast couple is celebrating this week.

Thursday marked the 65th wedding anniversary for 83-year-old Shirley and 87-year-old Jack Ward, who live at Bay Crest Village Everygreen Court.

The pair first met at Bandon High School in the 1930's and got married in Eugene in 1942.

"I would say that the happiness that we've had over the years has been very gratifying," says Jack Ward. "I think all the accomplishments we've made over these 65 years is even more gratifying."

They say, among their many accomplishments include raising two girls, Sharon and Peggy, owning a theatre in Bandon together and supporting each other's careers.

Jack is a Navy veteran and worked at the U.S. Postal Service in Bandon for 30 years, while, Shirley was an aide in a Bandon hospital. She also has descendants who founded the town of Langlois.

When asked, what's the key to a good marriage, they say that besides ignoring each other at times, you have to know who's the boss.

"She's in charge," says Jack Ward. "Even though I try to be bossy, she would say I'm very stubborn, she always wins."

The Wards celebrated their special day by going to the chapel and visiting their favorite garden that Jack often helps take care of at Everygreen Court.

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