Free
Living Life After 50
Vol. 37, No. 9
February 2024
www.seniorlifenewspapers.com
St. JoSeph edition Reaching South Bend and SuRRounding countieS
Tied together…
DOLAN WEDDING DAY — Cecelia and Bill Dolan were married on Aug. 30, 1958 at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Bremen. Photo provided by the Dolans. By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer According to a Chinese proverb, “An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place or circumstance.” Cecelia and Bill Dolan have been connected with an invisible red thread for over 65 years, with “each year being better than the last.” Raised in Chicago, Bill would eventually move to Elkhart and attend St. Mary’s Church, the same church as a woman named Margaret. Margaret set Bill up with Cecelia, her sister, and the sparks flew instantly. The pair would go on their first (of many) dates and had dinner at a local restaurant where local bands would often perform. The rose colored glasses would shatter once Bill would enlist in the U.S. Army. “I had no idea when or even if I would ever see him again,” Cecelia said, “but I kept my faith.” “I promised if I came home and if we still felt the same way, we would get
married,” Bill explained, “and I kept my promise.” Cecelia and Bill were married on Aug. 30, 1958 at the St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Bremen. Since then, the Dolans have been building their life together. After working and raising their family in Elkhart, the pair has been living in South Bend for over a decade now. “You have a long future ahead of you,” Cecelia mentioned, “so be sure you are with who you want.” The Dolans raised five children: Joseph, Timothy, Michael, Mary Kay and Christine. They are also proud grandparents of 12 grandchildren. Cecelia worked a rewarding career as a registered nurse at Elkhart General Hospital, working in numerous hospital departments. Bill worked an equally impressive career as he was a dedicated employee at CTS for 36.5 years as a tool and die maker. “The half year matters,” Bill chuckled. The Dolans are seasoned travelers and have traveled across the globe. The couple has cruised around Alaska, Hawaii and Europe. They have also enjoyed traveling through Italy, Poland, Egypt and Ireland. Although, they do not need to travel much farther than their own backyard to see beauty. The
65 YEARS OF MARRIAGE — Bill and Cecelia Dolan have celebrated 65 years of marriage. Bill swears each year keeps “getting better than the last.” Photo provided by the Dolans.
Dolans have been avid gardeners essentially all their lives. Cecelia grew up on a dairy farm with 9 siblings where she would help tend the garden and Bill had his own victory garden while he lived in Chicago. Together, the Dolans have grown tomatoes, green beans, onions, asparagus, raspberries, green peppers and corn. This year, Cecelia estimated she had canned over 50 quarts of tomatoes and green beans. “We have never really had to buy canned goods because we have always been blessed by our garden,” Cecelia explained, “it always made me feel good knowing I was feeding my family quality fruits and vegetables.” Bill honestly earned the nickname “the pumpkin man” as he would bring pumpkins in from the garden to work for his coworkers. Since retiring the couple has had more time to dedicate to their garden and spending time with family. “Thank God for what you got,” Bill said with a smile, patting Cecelia’s hand.
with invisible red thread You Are Not Alone . . .
Elder Law and Estate Planning Helping Seniors For Over 50 Years 1237 East University Dr I Granger, IN 46530 www.riceandrice.com
Advertising Material
Over 70% of All Americans Over Age 65 Will Need Long-Term Care or End Up in a Nursing Home...At A Cost of Up To $10,000 Per Month. That Means 7 Out Of 10 Adults Could Lose Much Of Their Life Savings or Even Their Own Homes. Now You Have Help.
You Have RICE
RICE ATTORNEYS
FEEL SECURE KNOWING YOUR ASSETS ARE SAFE
WE CAN HELP even if you do not have long-term care insurance.
Free Workshops
Join Us! For Persons 65 or Older. Seating is Limited.
Monday, February 5th, 6:00 p.m. or Monday, February 26th, 6:00 p.m. Ruth’s Chris Steak House 902 E University Dr | Granger, IN
Reservations Required Call Now to Reserve Your Seat!
574.703.3322