When two lives intertwine for over six decades, they create a tapestry rich with memories, challenges, triumphs, and deep-rooted love.

This is the extraordinary story of St. Ledger and Dorothea, a couple who met by chance, fell in love, and built a life together filled with dedication, resilience, and shared dreams.

How it all began

Their journey began many years ago when they met in Regent’s Park. It was an ordinary day, with St. Ledger playing pinball with a friend.

Suddenly, two girls walked into the room, one of whom caught St. Ledger’s attention.

“My friend said, ‘Hey, Saip, check that chick over there,’” recall St. Ledger with a laugh.

She had long black hair, and he was instantly drawn to her.

Mustering up his courage, St. Ledger approached her with an introduction: “My name is St. Ledger. How do you do?” She didn’t respond immediately but walked away, leaving a lasting impression on him.

For the next three days, St. Ledger couldn’t stop thinking about her.

Determined to find her, he asked around and discovered where she lived. That determination paid off, leading to their first date at Zoo Lake.

“We dated for three years, broke up for a year, and then got back together,” said St. Ledger.

According to St. Ledger, after getting back together, Dorothea asked him to marry her and he agreed.

After a whirlwind romance, they tied the knot in 1960 and went on to build a life together.

Building a life together

In 1962, the couple embarked on a new chapter, moving to Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in search of better opportunities.

At the time, St. Ledger was earning 41 cents an hour in South Africa, while in Rhodesia, he could make R1.25 an hour.

The promise of a better life lured them north, where they built a home and later had two children, a daughter born in 1963 and a son born in 1970.

The couple’s journey has not been without challenges, however.

They lived in Zimbabwe for 47 years, where they raised their children and built a successful life.

St. Ledger worked as a mechanical engineer, specialising in making gears and shafting.

He also enjoyed playing darts and was semi-professional dart player, competing in tournaments all over the world, including America, Canada and England.

He was also a Zimbabwe singles champion for seven years.

His wife on the hand was the backbone of the family, taking care of the household and raising their children.

Life in Rhodesia was not without its challenges. Political instability and economic declined in the country making life increasingly difficult.

“There was no electricity, no water, and food was scarce,” Saint recalls.

Eventually, in December 2008, they decided to return to South Africa, settling into a quieter, more stable life.

Secrets to a long-lasting marriage

St. Ledger and Dorothea’s marriage has spanned 64 years – a milestone few achieve.

When asked about the secret to their long and happy marriage, they both agree that communication, working together, and avoiding financial stress are key.

“We’ve never had money problems because we lived by the rule: if you don’t have the money, you don’t buy it,” St. Ledger explains.

Financial strain, they believe, is one of the main reasons for divorce today. By discussing their plans and aligning their goals early on, they built a solid foundation for their marriage.

They also emphasize the importance of companionship.

“After a while, you become lifelong friends. The love is still there, but it evolves into something deeper – respect, understanding, and partnership,” Dorothea shares.

Achievements and cherished moments

Throughout their marriage, St. Ledger and Dorothea have celebrated numerous milestones.

The births of their two children, building their first house, and travelling the world are among the highlights.

St. Ledger’s achievements in sports brought excitement to their lives. As a semi-professional dart player, he competed internationally and also excelled in golf, maintaining a two-handicap at his peak.

Dorothea played a crucial role in their engineering business, managing finances while Saint focused on the technical aspects.

Together, they complemented each other perfectly, creating a partnership beyond their personal lives.