Gary and Jeanette Fagan of Dubuque are celebrating an impressive milestone this year. The couple recently marked nearly 65 years of marriage, a journey that began in the hallways of a local hospital where they were both born just one week apart.
The couple first connected during their high school years, eventually going on a first date at a roller skating rink on Dodge Street. After Gary finished his time with the Army National Guard, the pair wed on September 16, 1961, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. They celebrated the occasion with family and friends at the Melody Mill Ballroom, marking the start of a life built on mutual support and shared interests.
Over the decades, the Fagans raised three children and built a family that has grown to include 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Gary spent 30 years working at John Deere while Jeanette focused on raising their children before returning to the workforce. Today, both are retired and spend their time focusing on their shared passion for photography. They operate a local business capturing weddings, sporting events, and school activities.
Beyond their photography business, they remain active in the community. Gary and Jeanette volunteer at the Dubuque County Fair, and Jeanette performs with the band Older and Bolder. They have traveled extensively, having been on 29 cruises, and often head west to enjoy the scenery in states like Wyoming and Montana.
When asked about the secret to their long marriage, the couple points to one core principle: respect. They note that they always focus on talking things through and facing new challenges together. As they look forward to a family reunion in September to celebrate their anniversary, they continue to live by the rule of never letting the sun set on an argument. Their story serves as a reminder of the value of patience and dedication in building a lasting life together.