Close to retirement, Heinrich and Susan Theunissen are still as much in love as the day they tied the knot.

The couple, who married on 1 November 1986, will soon celebrate 39 years together – a milestone that speaks volumes about their enduring bond.

Their lives have always been closely intertwined, with Heinrich joking to the Advertiser: “Susan was always like a stertjie after me.”

There was never one ‘aha’ moment that made them realise they were meant for each other, but rather a gradual and natural inclination towards one another.

Susan described their love as having a shared meaning: “We both like sports, and we both serve in the church.”

Both agree that the biggest joy in their marriage was the birth of their son. With a longing expression in his eyes, Heinrich remembers fondly how his son was perfect with 10 toes and 10 fingers.

During the early years of their marriage, communication was one of their biggest headaches.

“While we are both stubborn, we respect each other’s personality and we have learned to accept who we are together!”.

Softly caressing Heinrich’s hand, Susan recalled a fond memory of them attending a market and drinking coffee on the sidewalk.

“Heinrich is my safe haven, my soul mate, and we are each other’s confidants,” she said.

Naturally private people, they always turn to each other for support, with Heinrich describing it as love in the Biblical sense: forgiveness, respect, and support.

When asked what advice they would give to young newlyweds, both agreed it’s crucial to learn your partner’s personality and to accommodate each other. To give each other space to be the individual they are within the marriage.

Heinrich and Susan don’t have definite plans for their retirement. One thing is certain, they just want peace, and maybe a grandchild…

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