Their lengthy union began with Don working in Port Credit for John Deere and Mary was employed at the Bank of Mon- treal until retirement, save the young years of their children, Tim and Tara. When they start- ed school, Mary resumed her employment. In 1975, Don was transferred to Chatham, and Mary secured work at the BMO there. In 1976, Don and Mary were transferred to London and resided in Ponds Mills. Both children completed their education in London. In 1978, Don began working as an Industrial Mechanic for a company called Tennant. He worked from his home office and his territory cove- red Southwestern Ontario. In 2008, after twenty-nine years, he retired to enjoy the sunset years with his love, Mary. When asked what has kept them together, they said they married each other’s best friend. Mary and Don are very
True Love of a Fifty-six Year Marriage by Ruth-Anne Calhoun In the presence of Mary and Don Clayton, this writer was captured instantly by the strength and devotion of their mutual love. They met in Port Credit, where Mary’s parents settled from Italy in 1954. Don moved to Port Credit in 1967 and resided across the street from Mary’s family. Cupid wasted no time in shooting the arrows of love to both. When asked what drew Mary to Don, she said, “I thought he was a cute guy who parked his car in front of my home. It was a strong physical attraction and I would keep watch for him.” Don said, “I thought she was the prettiest girl I ever saw.” One day, when Mary was going to the store, Don asked her if she would pick up some orange juice for him. Upon returning with his juice, he asked her out and she accepted. In true gentleman style, he asked her parent’s permission to take Mary to the (C.N.E.) Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto. Her folks, who were strong Italian Catholics, consented. Mary and Don enjoyed their day and rode the Flying Gondolas, which were attached high up by wires. Don looked behind them and was shocked when he saw a Nun sitting in the rear car! It unnerved him somewhat and he thought he had better behave himself. Mary mused that perhaps this was a good sign, the Lord’s blessing. And so it was. In 1968, they were wed in Mary’s parents’ home. Both Don and Mary’s families had a strong work ethic. Because the couple were financially conscientious, they chose to have a small wedding with family and a few close friends. The ceremony was in the unfinished basement with cinder block walls decorated by streamers. The setting was irrelevant to the couple because the most important thing was being married to the love of each other’s life. Mary’s mother had a close friend who catered the meal.
compatible. They respect one another and both feel very lucky. They talk through all issues, make decisions together, compromise, share the same value system, and do not go to bed angry. Their life has been filled with thoughtfulness, mutual love, kindness, caring, and affection, and they put the other one first. “Our love has grown over the decades and still grows every day.” they both said. This doesn’t mean there weren’t some disagreements, but they overcame any hurdles that arose. Communication and mutual understanding are key. Don said, “She is my rock,” and Mary said the same thing about Don. “We appreciate each other and our friends. This is what we instilled in our children along with the importance of volunteer work.” Don and Mary have volunteered throughout most of their marriage. Mary mainly works with the Heart and Stroke Foundation and Thames Valley Children’s Centre. Don volunteers with the Terry Fox Foundation and Special Olympics and works with the disenfranchised, helping to show them kindness and hope. They were also members of the Byron Community Organization. “We are very lucky and believe strongly in giving back. We count our blessings,” said both of them. As this story was being completed, Mary was speaking with their son, Tim, and his wife, who were in the village where Mary was born in Italy. Tim sent Mary a picture of him and his wife standing in front of the house where Mary was born. Mary said, “I can’t believe it is still standing; it is nearly a hundred years old!” It seems another blessing has been bestowed upon this wonderful, amazing couple. We were blessed when this couple, who are ‘The salt of the earth,’ joined our Beloved Byron family thirty-eight years ago. Don said, “We want our story to give people hope and inspiration.”
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