Dearborn Couple Celebrates 75th Wedding Anniversary

Claude and Lois Freeburn will celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary today in Dearborn by having a party with family and friends.

The couple, who are both in their 90s, met in Prescott, Mich. while their parents worked on a farm.

"Claude was raised in St. Clair Shores, but when his father lost his job during the Great Depression, he bought a farm near my father's farm and the rest is history," Lois laughed.

She said the couple began dating early on, after Claude's mother suggested that he take Lois to a movie one evening.

"We were about 19 when we met, and we were married just after we turned 21," Lois said.

The couple had two daughters, and moved to Dearborn after Claude found work in Detroit as a tool and die maker.

"We love it here," Lois said. "We've been in the same house on Hollywood Street since 1952."

Lois admits that she dated a few boys prior to meeting Claude, but said it was Claude's sense of humor and outgoing personality that struck a chord with her.

"We really get along," she said. "We're best friends. We enjoy each other's company, and he still makes me laugh with his jokes."

Lois said because the couple grew up during the Great Depression, she didn't always have the money to go out on dates.

"Claude was looking for work in Detroit, so I would only see him on the weekends," she explained. "But when we were able to get together, he was a lot of fun. I always had a good time, no matter if we were going to the movies or just hanging out."

In their spare time, Lois said she and Claude enjoy visiting with their children and grandchildren.

"We can't drive anymore, so Claude's big activity is working in his garden. We also have dinner with our granddaughter once a week. It's nice to be blessed with health and to have a loving family nearby," she said. "We have a lot to be thankful for."

Lois said the couple will celebrate their anniversary with about 70 friends at the Great Lakes Boat Club in River Rouge this weekend.