A heartwarming love story unfolds as a woman, Janet Fontane, fulfills her lifelong dream of getting married at the age of 76, after meeting her now-husband, Cliff, at the age of 81 on a dating site. Fontane reveals her inspiring journey to love in a personal essay for Business Insider, shedding light on the lessons she has learned along the way.
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Fontane recalls a life filled with dating experiences that never quite led to finding her true companion until she retired from her career in international marketing in 2016. It was during a personal development course that focused on pursuing dreams that she realised her biggest desire was to be married and to experience reciprocal love. With newfound free time in retirement, Fontane dedicated herself to actively seeking her soulmate to share the remaining years of her life.
A pivotal moment arose when Fontane enlisted the help of her friend, Gina Guddat, a relationship counsellor and author, to create a dating profile on a website. The profile showcased Fontane’s interests and hobbies, from travelling and skiing to attending church and engaging in community activities. In February 2021, Fontane matched with Cliff, sparking a connection that transcended the distance between Seattle and Phoenix.
Their relationship blossomed with long phone calls and a pivotal first date at a vineyard during Cliff’s visit to Seattle. Despite initial uncertainties, Fontane took a chance on love, leading to a bond that grew stronger with each passing day. The decision to purchase matching rings in December 2023 symbolised their commitment to a future together, culminating in a dream wedding in April.
Fontane’s wedding day symbolised the merging of two distinct lives into one shared journey. Reflecting on the significance of marrying later in life, she highlighted the bittersweet experience of celebrating amidst the absence of departed loved ones, underscoring the fleeting nature of life. Fontane’s story with Cliff has not only brought joy to their lives but has also offered hope to others that love knows no age boundaries.
The couple’s tale serves as a beacon of optimism, inspiring others to believe that it is never too late to find love and companionship. Fontane expressed her gratitude for having Cliff, who stands by her side, brings laughter into her life, and prioritises her above all else as they navigate the journey of aging together. Their enduring love story resonates as a testament to the timeless nature of love and the beauty of finding companionship at any stage of life.