Henny and Otto Breit celebrate 70 years of marriage.
Couple celebrates 70th wedding anniversary, home hosts party
Long-lasting love, give and take secrets to Breits' success, husband says
Thursday January 14, 2010 -- Natalie Hamilton
After 70 years of marriage, Otto Breit says he's still "very much in love" with his wife, Henny.

While they now reside separately, with Henny living at Maple View Long Term Care Centre in Owen Sound, Otto rides his scooter or takes a cab to visit her each day from his apartment in town.

"We are very much in love," says Otto.

The couple recently celebrated seven decades of marriage on Dec. 2, 2009. Maple View, a 29-bed home, organized a party in honour of the Breits.

"It's such a milestone," says Alison McEachnie, program manager at Maple View.

McEachnie says it's such a rare occasion she couldn't find a 70th wedding anniversary card for the couple.

Nevertheless, the home had already decided to host a party for residents and family members with tea, coffee and a slab cake.

The couple's daughter, who lives in Texas, and granddaughter who lives in Phoenix, Arizona, travelled to Canada for the occasion.

It was important to recognize the couple and their anniversary, McEachnie says.

"They call each other soul mates. It's so nice to have them part of the Maple View family. It's so obvious how much they love each other."

The Breits were married just prior to the beginning of the Second World War and moved to Canada 40 years ago.

They have three children and five grandchildren. Otto says "give and take" is an important component of a long-lasting marriage.

Otto and Henny are good people, says McEachnie, noting they are very kindhearted, providing donations to the home and presents for the staff at Christmas.

"He's a pretty dedicated husband and they are just the most generous people."

If you have feedback on this article, e-mail natalie(at)axiomnews.ca or call the newsroom at 800-294-0051.