‘Love, affection – and patience’ – Ware care home residents share secret to a happy marriage

Love was well and truly in the air at a Ware care home when two residents celebrated a very special milestone.

96-year-old Joan Hare, and her husband 95-year-old Walter, both residents at Care UK’s Snowdrop House on Baldock Street toasted their 73^rd wedding anniversary in September.

True childhood sweethearts, Joan and Walter met when they were teenagers studying at sixth form - and have been inseparable ever since.

Joan said: “We used to go on weekends away with our local youth hostel and became good friends there – we share a lot of the same interests and got on so well!”

Walter added: “I’d definitely say that the key to a happy marriage is having similar interests, as well as plenty of love, affection – and patience!” 

The couple, who have two daughters, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, celebrated their special day with a visit from their family and a cake handmade by the home’s talented Head Chef.

Clare Crow, Home Manager at Snowdrop House, said: “Here at Snowdrop House, we know how important it is to celebrate all of life’s milestones, big and small. This was a big day for Joan and Walter and we were honoured to raise a glass to their long and happy marriage – we can certainly all learn from their experience.

“The atmosphere in the home was wonderful and prompted many residents to reminisce and share fond memories of their own weddings. It truly was a day to remember – happy anniversary Joan and Walter!”

Snowdrop House is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.