Harold and Helen’s first date was a blind date, and many dates later, they eventually were united in marriage on May 13, 1961 at St. James Catholic Church in Haubstadt. Less than a year later, their first son was born, followed by three more sons, and finally, a daughter. They resided in the same home in Fort Branch until moving to Heritage Woods in Newburgh.

Helen grew up on a farm and worked hard every day milking cows and helping with other farm and household chores. She never shied away from work. She attended St. James Catholic School and Reitz High School, graduating in the class of ’49. After graduating, she worked in the offices of WJPS and Whirlpool. After marrying Harold, her most important job became wife and then mother. With five children in nine years, she kept busy taking care of children, the house, and working in the garden. Helen was a fabulous cook and especially loved baking bread and kuchens. Later, she volunteered at church, helping disabled children and adults learn about the love of Jesus through the SPRED program. Exercising and eating healthy was always a priority in her life.

Harold grew up in Haubstadt and began helping around the house and doing odd jobs at an early age because his father died young. Hard work was also a way of life for Harold. He attended Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School and Haubstadt High School, graduating in 1952. After high school, Harold enlisted in the Navy and served during the Korean War. He is a proud military veteran and loves the United States flag and all that it represents. For most of his employment years, Harold worked in the office at Emge Packing Company in Fort Branch. He later worked as Clerk Treasurer for the Town of Fort Branch. When he wasn’t working, you could often find Harold in their yard or garden, working hard to get a good harvest of fruits and vegetables, which Helen would can and freeze. In the winter, he enjoyed woodworking and fixing broken things.

Helen and Harold are well-known in the Fort Branch community. In their later years, they could usually be found walking around the block, hand-in-hand, with their homemade canes. In their 62 year marriage, they have withstood the good and bad times, just as many couples do, but when Harold’s health suddenly started failing two years ago, they eventually found their way to Heritage Woods. They both agree that this move has been a positive one, and now can be found on the trails outside, and inside through the hallways at Heritage Woods, walking hand-in-hand.