Above: Ernie and Mary Rossetti celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at Costello’s in Pakenham on Sunday. By Glen Atwell
AFTER 50 years of unity, Ernie and Mary Rossetti know the secret to a successful marriage.
Wed your best friend.
The Kooweerup couple celebrated 50 years of marital bliss on Sunday with a celebratory luncheon at Costello’s in Pakenham.
More than 50 guests helped the dynamic duo reflect on a lifetime of togetherness, an unwavering commitment that began on a 1950s dance floor.
“I first met Ernie at a local dance in June of 1955,” Mary said.
“He was a good dancer back then, of course, and we sort of hit it off straight away.”
After captivating Mary with his array of dance moves, Ernie proposed to Mary in November and they were married in April 1956.
Ernie was born in Italy. When he was two years old he travelled half way around the world to Australia.
In the 50 years since their wedding date, Ernie and Mary have cherished their strong friendship. But, as in most marriages, it has not been all smooth sailing.
“There have been the ups and downs, but that is part and parcel of a long marriage,” Mary said.
“We have always stuck together and kept close.”
There could be another important motivator behind the long marriage, according to Mary.
“I’m a great cook and that helps,” she laughed.
Ernie and Mary have five children – Brian, Maurice, Gavin, Denis and Bernadette – and 10 grandchildren. They received congratulatory messages from several dignitaries, including the Prime Minister John Howard.
