Married 60 years, couple renew vows

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In 1930 Jean and Joe Willier made their way up to the altar inside a Roman Catholic church and were married in holy matrimony.

Sixty years later on April 30, they celebrated their marriage by renewing their vows at their Sucker Creek church.

They arrived at the church in a horse-drawn carriage. Don Calliou, a former chief of Sucker Creek Indian Reserve and a long-time resident, noted "this was the same way they arrived at the church 60 years ago -- in a wagon."

Inside the Catholic church friends and relatives gathered to witness Jean and Joe renewing their vows.

Father Baraddo, a Cree-speaking priest, said the couple are the ultimate example of faithfulness.

"They have shared so many years of faithfulness towards each other. It is the supreme quality of God himself," he said.

The marriage was celebrated with a full mass. Cree gospel songs filled the tiny church while Father Baraddo blessed the couple with holy water.

Five generations of Jean and Joe's family attended the marriage anniversary.

Lesser Slave Lake MLA Pearl Calahasen, who attended the anniversary after a harrowing experience, offered her congratulations to the couple. A helicopter in which Calahasen was a passenger crash-landed near Slave Lake.

"Sixty ears is a long time to be married to one man," said Calahasen humorously.

"It's nice to see two people still married after 60 years. Today, too many couples are saying 'Good-bye' instead of 'I do.' Congratulations."

Sucker Creek Chief Jim Badger, who attended the wedding banquet with his wife, Tiffany, told the large crowd it was a "very special occasion."

"It's special for me to witness two people married for 60 years. It is a long time to be with someone," he said offering his congratulations.

Calliou said Jean and Joe's marriage is living proof long-term relationships can work.

"Young people don't seem to understand this. I hope all the young people gathered here today follow Jean and Joe's commitment to each other. They are a fine example.

"Jean and Joe put all their efforts into raising their children properly. Their love shows in the actions of their children."

"They have no enemies, only friends because they lead a good life," said Calliou.

The Williers raised 12 children and one son, Domino, was a "box office hit" as the master of ceremonies. During the speeches he kept everyone laughing with his jokes.

"Maybe someone from the Indian nations should remind the government in South Africa about Custer," he quipped.

Opening prayers at the banquet were said by Sucker Creek elder Viki Calliou.

"Today marriage is no longer like Jean and Joe's marriage. One year, two , live and then people break up. Sixty years is a long time. Maybe we should start following Jean and Joe's example - until death do us part." she suggested.

"Sixty years ago they started working on children. They had one, then two, then 10 and now the whole gymnasium is filled." Domino joked.

Later when this reporter had a chance to speak with the proud bride and groom, Joe Willier only had one comment to make.

"I'm 80 years old and still..." Well, I'll leave the rest of his comment to your imagination.

A dance in honor of Jean and Joe Willier's anniversary was held after the banquet.