Patrick and Patricia Hendricks (née Felix) celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary today, Thursday, January 25.
The couple, both 87, tied the knot 60 years ago, in 1964, at the St Simon and Jude Catholic Church, in Simon’s Town.
They both attended the Catholic School in Simon’s Town where they met and took their first holy communion and confirmation together.
Patrick was friends with Patricia’s brothers and was involved with their family band, The Junior Ramblers.
Although he did not play any instruments himself, he would go where the band went and became band manager – always dressed in the same apparel as the band.
According to the couple’s daughter, Shirley, her father asked her mother to carry her bags, as she was on her way to a year-end function, and while she was hesitant at first, he insisted, and the rest is history.
They lived in Simon’s Town for 33 years before moving to Ocean View in 1969 where they still reside today.
Patricia maintains they are a perfect match, as they both share the male and female name of Pat. They are the same age and their birthdays always fall on same day of the week every year.
The couple firmly believe they have reached this milestone because of their first love, the Lord, and the love they share for each other.
Shirley says that although life has dealt them many challenges, they stuck to their vows for better or worse, in sickness and in health, for richer and poorer.
This can be attested by both family and friends alike. The couple will celebrate their 60th anniversary with an intimate family affair.
The couple have five children, Anthea Baron and Lynn, Bevan, Shirley and Julian Hendricks, and three grandchildren, Rosco, Shanle, and Nicole.