Minnesota Couple, Both 99, Mark 80 Years of Marriage

Betty and Kermit Eastman just did something almost impossible. The Minnesota couple celebrated 80 years of marriage on June 6, both at age 99.

Their love story started in high school when Betty's family moved across the street from Kermit in Thief River Falls. "She was so handy, she was right across the street," Kermit joked about noticing the girl next door.

Betty noticed him too. "He had a lawn mowing business when he was real young," she remembered with a smile.

Their young romance faced its first test when Kermit left high school early to join the Navy during World War II. While serving on the U.S.S. Mullaney, his ship was hit by a Japanese kamikaze pilot, killing about 20 sailors.

The couple stayed connected through letters during their two years apart. When Kermit came home, they married in a small ceremony and finished high school together as husband and wife.

They built a life in St. Cloud, where Kermit worked as a school superintendent. Today they have two children, five grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

The journey hasn't been easy. Betty survived both thyroid and breast cancer along the way.

"Every couple has events that they wish didn't happen, like when Betty was diagnosed with cancer, but we still have good memories that happen every day," Kermit shared.

Sunny's Take

An 80th anniversary is called the Oak Anniversary, fitting for a tree known for its strength. Only one couple in the United States reaches this milestone each year, and globally the odds are one in six million.

The Eastmans now live together at Talamore Senior Living, still sharing their days. Their secret to eight decades together is refreshingly simple.

"Just don't keep secrets and be honest," Betty advised. Kermit added his philosophy: "Tell it like it is. Just live every day. Every day is a gift."

Perhaps the sweetest part is what Kermit told reporters: "I've loved her since I met her."

After 80 years, that love is still as solid as oak.