François Moestermans and Paula Landerloos celebrated 75 years of marriage in Diest, reaching a milestone known as an alabaster wedding. The city government of Diest invited the couple to the town hall alongside other jubilarians, where they received flowers, a medal, and other tokens of appreciation during a reception that brought together 120 couples.
The couple’s history began in 1948 during a fair near the Our Lady of Assistance Chapel. François and Paula already knew each other from childhood when they attended the Patria cinema, where François first saw her and thought she was a pretty girl. Years later, he spotted her standing in a dance tent and asked her to dance. It was love at first sight for François, who walked her home promptly at 11 o’clock. Soon after, he received permission to visit her family on Thursdays.
Wedding Day in Diest
On July 14, 1951, François and Paula officially married. The celebration took place at home with the bride’s parents, where the family pushed tables and chairs aside to accommodate the gathering. The household included seven children on Paula’s side, while the couple eventually had two children of their own, Anne-Marie and Johan, followed by three grandsons and four great-granddaughters.
Did You Know? François and Paula have lived in their current home for 67 years. Their son Johan has lived in Canada for 20 years, visiting them twice a year for three-week periods.
The Secret to 75 Years Together
When asked about the secret behind a 75-year marriage, François offered a down-to-earth perspective. He explained that arguments and discussions happen everywhere, but they always resolve them, noting that they never had to do anything special to stay together. Today, they look back with gratitude on their lives, their children, and their experiences.
Looking Ahead to November
François approaches his 99th birthday in November with steady energy and already looks toward the milestone of turning 100. Johan promised his father that the entire family will travel from Canada for the centennial celebration. François no longer flies to Canada himself after surviving a heart attack 32 years ago. Reflecting on their decades together, François stated that he has always been crazy about his wife.
Details on the marriage, children, and meeting of François and Paula
How many children and descendants do they have?
François and Paula had two children, Anne-Marie and Johan. They also have three grandsons and four great-granddaughters.
How did François and Paula first meet?
What traditions or routines do you think help modern relationships stand the test of time?
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