Kermit and Betty Eastman, both celebrating their 99th birthdays, have recently marked a remarkable milestone—80 years of marriage. The couple tied the knot on June 6, 1946, after Kermit returned from his service in the Navy during World War II. Their enduring love story is a testament to their commitment and resilience over the decades.
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Reflecting on their relationship, Kermit shared with PEOPLE, “We still love each other.” Their bond has not only withstood the trials of time but has also blossomed into a large family, including two children, five grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. The family celebrated their historic oak anniversary surrounded by loved ones at the home of their daughter, Vicki Landwehr.
Vicki, 71, fondly reminisced about family gatherings rooted in a playful tradition of card games. “My mother started the tradition of giving prizes to the winners,” she explained. Originally, these prizes were small items from a dollar store, but they have since evolved into cash-filled envelopes, reflecting the changing times and the family’s growth.
The Eastmans’ romance began in their teenage years when they were neighbours. Kermit recounted the nerves he felt as he tried to muster the courage to approach Betty for a date. “I remember her dad saying, ‘I wonder what that Eastman boy is doing out there. He’s walking up and down in front of our house in the wintertime,'” he laughed. Betty’s first recollections of Kermit are vague but positive; she admitted she might not remember much, but her willingness to go to the movies with him spoke volumes.
Their paths diverged when Kermit enlisted in the Navy during World War II, leaving school to serve his country. He resumed his education upon his return to the United States, completing high school in 1946, and the couple married shortly thereafter. Their families were supportive of their young marriage, which Kermit described as “very much in favour” of the union.
After his graduation, Kermit pursued further education and eventually became the director of elementary education in St. Cloud, Minnesota. He served as superintendent until 1983, while Betty devoted her time to raising their children at home. The Eastmans also enjoyed living in the countryside for some years, where Kermit raised horses—a task that Betty undertook alongside him, despite not being particularly fond of it.
Life took a challenging turn for the couple when Betty was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 86. Vicki shared, “She had a lumpectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiation,” emphasising Kermit’s dedication as he accompanied her to all her appointments. Kermit’s philosophy during this challenging time was straightforward: “You just kind of keep going and pray for the best.”
Last November, the Eastmans moved into a senior living facility, which offered convenience for Betty, who could no longer manage cooking. While they maintain a spirited independence, Kermit acknowledged that they stand out among the other residents due to their advanced age. “We’re a little different even from the residents here. We’re both 99,” he remarked.
Their longevity is not lost on their daughter, Vicki, who expressed her gratitude for still having both parents in her life. “I don’t really have friends who have parents living anymore,” she pointed out. This sentiment is echoed by her grandson, Declan Frantesl, 19, who appreciates the invaluable presence of his great-grandparents. “I’m beyond blessed and so grateful to have them in my life,” he reflected, recognising the family-first mentality that Kermit and Betty have instilled in their descendants.
Looking ahead, Kermit is enthusiastic about another impending milestone—their centenary birthdays next year. With a twinkle in his eye, he quipped, “We’re just looking forward to those ages, huh?” The couple’s humour and optimism seem to be as strong as their love, which has thrived for eight decades and promises to continue for many more years to come.