A Love Story 74 Years in the Making

There is something truly special about a love that has grown through 74 years of marriage, countless adventures and a lifetime spent caring for one another.

Warm Beach residents Frank and Ardyce recently celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary, and we feel incredibly blessed to have them as part of our community!

When asked about the secret to their long marriage, Frank smiles and gives his familiar answer:

“She hasn’t kicked me out yet.”

Their story began in South Dakota in 1952 where they met during the summer. Frank knew Ardyce was special, so when she left to go back home and attend Seattle Pacific University, he decided to transfer there too. After dating for a year, they knew they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together.

Their school plans suddenly changed when Frank was drafted into the Army during the Korean War and told he had only two weeks to report for duty. With little time to prepare, the young couple quickly planned their wedding, said “I do” and began their life together.

Soon afterward, the adventurous newlyweds set off for Florida from Seattle so Ardyce could meet Frank’s parents. They made the trip in August in their 1941 Chevy Club Coupe…with no air conditioning.

Driving across the country into Florida’s muggy summer heat may not have been the most comfortable honeymoon, and one can only imagine the stories, laughter and excitement they shared along the way!

Frank completed basic training in Alabama and was assigned to headquarters there, where he worked as a typist preparing military orders during the war. During Frank’s two years in the Army, he and Ardyce rented a little house near the base for just $30 a month!

Looking back on that time, Ardyce says she was never homesick because she was with the love of her life. ❤️

After Frank completed his military service, the couple returned to Seattle and finished up studies at Seattle Pacific University with help from the GI Bill. Frank went on to get a masters degree their also. Together, they have built a beautiful life with a loving family that now includes two children, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Frank and Ardyce have also spent their lives serving others. Here at Warm Beach, they head up the lively monday morning “Getting to Know You” coffee group, where they help neighbors connect, share stories and build new friendships. (There are also some very tasty treats prepared by the wonderful residents here!)

They have also faithfully traveled to Shoreline each Sunday for church, where Frank plays the organ and Ardyce prepares coffee for the congregation. At the end of August, they will begin attending Sunday services here on the Warm Beach campus, and we are so happy to welcome them!

Frank and Ardyce are deeply loved members of our Warm Beach Faith-Inspired Retirement Living community. Their kindness, faith, humor and devotion to one another bring warmth wherever they go. 🙏

They remind us that a beautiful life is built through love, faith, service and the joy of sharing their lives together.

Happy 74th anniversary, Frank and Ardyce. We love you and are so grateful for the Age Out Loud joy you bring to Warm Beach!