North Bay Couple Marks 67-Year Wedding Anniversary

FAIRFIELD, CA — In a small Wisconsin restaurant over six decades ago, a chance encounter between Coral and Arno Drew sparked a love story that has stood the test of time.

The couple, former residents of Paradise, California, who have lived at The Village at Rancho Solano in Fairfield for 6 /12 years, recently celebrated 67 years of marriage. The couple reflected on the journey that brought them together and the lessons they’ve learned.

Coral still vividly remembers how it all began: with a simple greeting.

"One day, Arno walked in wearing a nice tie and shirt. He said hi, I said hi, and it became more," she said.

Shortly after they met, Arno left for California. That is when Coral realized how much he meant to her.

“I felt sad. I wanted him to come back. That’s when I knew I was in love.”

Their relationship blossomed, and soon, they were building a life together —navigating the ups and downs of marriage with grace and understanding.

Arno, now 89, shared his perspective on what has made their partnership endure.

"We’ve been married for 67 years now, and we have a great time together," Arno said. "We are very fortunate to have met the way we did."

When asked what advice he would give to young couples today, Arno did not hesitate.

"Be able to agree to disagree. Don’t push the marriage — live with it and adapt," Arno said. "Share your thoughts with each other, honestly raise your children, and you will have a happy and peaceful life.”

Their story is one of commitment and mutual respect—a narrative that resonates deeply in today’s fast-paced world.

Staff at The Village told Patch it was rare to see a couple married for so long living together in a senior community.

"Coral and Arno’s journey is a beautiful example of what it means to grow together and embrace life’s changes," said Morgan Whinery, executive director of The Village at Rancho Solano. "Their story reminds us all of the importance of connection, communication, and perseverance."