They were married 20 years before Conception Bay South even became a town, but their union may be taken as evidence that the communities that eventually amalgamated to form CBS long had ties of friendship and community and like the happy couple who celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last Saturday, were meant to come together. Audrey (nee Chaytor) of Chamberlains and Cliff Petten of Kelligrews were introduced by Audrey’s brother Bob, who passed away last year. And how did that first meeting go? “I’m not letting any secrets out now,” said Cliff, 90. “My first impression was, ‘This one’s not getting away,'” said Audrey, 91, laughing. Family and friends celebrated the happy couple’s anniversary at the Anglican Church in Topsail. “The party was wonderful,” said their eldest daughter Judy Terry. The couple have three children, Judy, Sharon and Jeff, 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Judy and Sharon both married Australians and live with their families Down Under. Jeff and his family live in CBS. Both Audrey and Cliff worked in the Department of Finance with the provincial government. Audrey’s first job was with the Bank of Montreal. Cliff worked at a number of places and retired with the department. And what’s the secret to their marital longevity? “Tolerance of one another,” said Audrey. “And the love that kept us together.” The couple still live independently in their own home in CBS. In the photo above, Audrey and Cliff are greeted by their daughters Judy, left, and Sharon, right, as they arrive to applause and laughter at the Church Hall. Craig Westcott photo
