That's why the couple, both of whom have been an integral part of the Malton community for more than 50 years, wanted their shared 80th birthday bash to be an event of laughter and joy.
The couple hosted a party for their family and friends Saturday at the Malton Baptist Church.
Sophie, a retired hairdresser, and Doug, a retired pharmacist, were married five years ago.
of course, they had known eachother forever ... but they insist, there was no inkling of a romance until one fateful day when they went for a cup of coffee.
“We had so many things in common, so many friends in common,” said Sophie, recalling their first date at age 72.
Three years later they were married.
Saturday's celebration included two birthday cakes decorated with pink and blue frosting, food, music and lots of laughter. Even though their actual birthdays are in January and October, the couple to compromise with a summer party.
“We thought it would be nice for folks to come and go without being bothered about snowstorms,” Sophie said. “Because we know so many people in Malton, we've had so many friends we have lost in the last four or five months. It seems anymore that's where we're gathering is at funerals. We felt, why wait for a funeral to get together. Let's have an ‘alive’ party.”
rpanjwani@mississauga.net
