Love was in the air when Dawn and Brian Burls celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
Surrounded by fond memories, treasured friendships and a life built on mutual love and respect, the couple from Thornhill Manor Retirement Village looked back on six decades of marriage when they celebrated their wedding anniversary on April 24.
“We had both our parents and friends celebrate with us,” said Dawn, reflecting on their special day.
“Our journey began with a heartfelt ceremony filled with friends and family and a first dance to The Loveliest Night of the Year.”
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Their path has taken them from Pretoria, where both matriculated – Dawn from Pretoria Girls’ High and Brian from Pretoria Boys’ High – to successful and fulfilling careers.
Dawn became a qualified nursing sister and midwife, dedicating her professional life to educating communities about Aids and tuberculosis.
Brian worked as a telephone technician before moving to the pharmaceutical industry as a medical representative and training manager.
Outside of work, both found joy in the Edenvale Bowls Club, where they played for 20 years.
Dawn represented the East Rand District for four years, while Brian skipped the premier league team.
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Today, their hobbies continue to keep them active. Dawn tends to her garden and reads, while Brian shares his love for music with the Thornhill Manor community, often singing at village events alongside his friend Gavin Standing.
“I always loved music,” said Brian.
“It started with my dad playing the banjo and singing old-time songs on the farm. There was no radio or TV, just music in the kitchen.”
Brian sang in the school choir and operettas and still sings in the church choir.
Together, they also share a passion for dancing.
“We love to dance when the occasion presents itself,” said Brian.
“It is such a joyful way to stay connected.”
With two children – Donovan and Vauneen both living in Cape Town and four beloved grandchildren – their family remains at the heart of their lives.
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The couple has lived at Thornhill Manor since 2003 and described their 22 years as ‘happy and secure’.
“It has taken away the stress and worry. It allowed us to build new friendships,” they added.
Brian and Dawn believe the secret to 60 years of love lies in patience, love and caring.
“To young couples just starting, Dawn and Brian offer simple yet powerful advice: “Be tolerant of one another’s faults.”
