Mockley Manor, Coate Water Care’s home based in Henley-in-Arden, recently had the privilege of helping a wonderful couple celebrate 71 years of marriage.
Mockley Manor resident John Karle, aged 96, and his wife Lily, 94, celebrated in style with a lounge full of decorations and at John’s request, the team organised for Lily’s favourite flowers to be delivered.
The anniversary was organised by the care team and accompanied by a delicious 3-course gourmet meal prepared by the chef, with the addition of music from the year the couple wed.
“At Mockley Manor, we really do know how much the sentimental things in life matter” said Katy Baxter, activities coordinator at Mockley Manor.
Kayleigh Huband, Marketing Manager at Coate Water Care, reflects, “On the 16th of November, I had the pleasure of meeting with Lily Karle and her family. We spoke about her marriage to John and the incredible years they have had together.”
How was your 71st Anniversary, Lily?
“It was a really lovely day, the room was decorated with heart confetti and balloons, we had prawn cocktail and chicken and vegetables for dinner, we were too full to eat the cake! I appreciate all of the effort everyone made.”
How did you and John meet?
“John had recently left the army once he had finished his training and started working for Thomas Haddon and Stokes, manufacturers of rolled thread screws, bolts, nuts and other fastenings. I had started a job there in the office and after a short time of briefly getting to know each other, he asked me out.”
“Shortly after dating, my mum was taken ill so I had to move in with John’s parents. We were living together for quite some time after his parents suggested we get married and when I was 22, in 1951, we got married.”
“We waited for 4 years for our house to be built and 4 years after that, we had our children, Stephen and Michael, 19 months apart! There were a lot of families with young children around the new housing district so we had plenty of support and John made all of our furniture in the new house to save money.”
What’s the secret to a happy marriage?
“Respect for one another, John has always been a gentleman and we have never really argued.”
Michael, Lily and John’s youngest son, adds: “Family means so much to my wonderful parents and we used to have lots of family gatherings. Their selflessness and close family ties are an inspiration to us all and their special bond is built on those strong family ties. However, 71 years is laying down a very tough challenge for the rest of us!”
“John has been well looked after since being at Mockley Manor and we would like to say a special thanks for the tremendous support team Mockley provided for our Dad and husband.”
Kayleigh Huband says: ”We thank John and Lily’s family for allowing us to share their special day. John Karle sadly passed away on the 21st of November, our thoughts go out to his family.”
A lifetime of love, a true inspiration to us all.
