Love blooms at Thembalami
Two Thembalami Care Centre residents recently said “I do”, in a celebration of the love that had slowly unfolded between them.
Denise Riddel Forrest became a resident of the Rand Aid Association-run care centre on January 5, 2010. A month later, Julius Koen moved in.
There was an event for the residents and Denise was captivated by the voice of a woman, who was part of the entertainment line-up.
Denise asked about purchasing a CD of her music.
It just so happened that the singer happened to be Julius’ daughter, Sonja Cilliers.
At supper that night, he arrived with a handful of CDs as a gift for Denise.
“That is his way,” said Denise, of her new husband. She added that he is helpful and kind.
Julius said their relationship is “very strong”.
Julius’ first wife died in 2008 and he found the years that followed were lonely. Denise was also married before, but had been on her own for 26 years before becoming Mrs Koen.
The small and intimate wedding ceremony was held at an Italian restaurant in Bedfordview. It was attended mainly by close family members and three staff members of Thembalami.
Julius and Denise both have loving families and both work part-time for the care centre. Julius helps the driver of the care centre’s minibus, while Denise relieves the switchboard operator when she is on lunch or on leave.
“They are both beautiful, honest and hardworking,” said the head of Thembalami, Ms Elize Raath, who was a guest at the wedding.
Between them, the couple has five children and seven grandchildren.
