St. Catharines Mayor salutes his parents on their Diamond Anniversary

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Published October 28, 2021 at 12:58 pm

It’s been a big day for St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik as his folks, Frederick and Anna, celebrated their Diamond wedding anniversary today (October 28). For those unfamiliar, the Diamond means 60 years of marriage, a rarity today.

Sendzik, the youngest of four children, toasted his parents on social media today, noting in a touching tribute that they were high-school sweethearts at St. Catharines Collegiate back in the 1950s.

“The past six decades have been quite the ride for my Mom and Dad,” Sendzik said. “Four kids (Sue, Brian, Andy and me – yes, I am the baby of the crew).”

He praised his parents’ work ethic. “My dad started working at a local paper mill and then was hired at General Motors pretty much working seven days a week in the beginning and my mom was an amazing stay-at-home mom, who did pretty much everything including making our clothes.”

Sendzik noted that often people only see their parents honestly when they become parents themselves. “As children, we only see really one side of our parents but over time as we grow up, we come to understand and appreciate our parents on a different level.”

“We see the complexities of life, the ups and downs, the wonderful moments of celebration and difficulties that life serves up without notice. We continue to learn – and that is a key part in this moment of celebration.”

He continues that what his folks taught their children about life could be their enduring legacy. “Over the past 60 years, my parents have taught me – and my siblings – so much about life.”

Some of it has been through sage advice – most of it has been through the power of observation. Their love, their bond together and their commitment to each other has been something to behold.”

He concluded by noting what it takes to maintain 60 years of marriage. “I am immensely proud of their achievement. Nothing is ever easy in life – but these two found a way to hold on – falling deeper in love as time passed.”

(Photo of Walter Sendzik’s parent and Sendzik wearing his purple shirt yesterday to raise awareness and recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month courtesy of Facebook)

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