A Valentine’s Day Love Story: “We Created a Family”

“We created a family.”

Those were the first words Tom shared when reflecting on his 70-year marriage to his wife, Sue. Simple words, but they carry a lifetime of devotion, resilience, and love.

Their story began in 1955 with a blind date. Tom had just returned home after being stationed overseas in the Navy for 19 months. A friend had a date in Rochester, New York—and that date happened to have a friend named Sue. Three months and one day later, Tom and Sue were married. As Tom put it best, “When you know, you know.”

Marriage quickly taught them the meaning of commitment. After their wedding, Tom was stationed in Washington, D.C., while Sue remained in Rochester. They stayed connected the old-fashioned way through letters, and Tom would hitchhike during breaks to see her. On one unforgettable trip, Tom hitched a ride while clutching a giant carnival teddy bear thumb out, a bear bigger than the luggage. It wasn’t every day a driver saw a sailor and his oversized passenger headed off in the name of love.

Tom went on to earn his teaching degree through the GI Bill at SUNY Brockport while Sue worked for the Rochester Telephone Company. Later, Tom earned his master’s degree in social work and transitioned from a career in teaching to a career in social work with the New York State Department of Social Services. In 1972, Tom’s work brought them to the Albany area, where they settled in Clifton Park and purchased a new home. The excitement of that moment —especially seeing the fireplace—has stayed with Tom all these years, a symbol of the life they were building together.

Together, Tom and Sue raised three children, Jeannie, John, and Jeff. Building a family was deeply meaningful to them both. Sue had been raised by her aunt and uncle after losing her parents at a young age, and Tom grew up with divorced parents, with his father living far away. Creating a close, loving home was something they truly cherished.

While raising their children, Sue also built a successful career selling Avon, a job she found both rewarding and fulfilling. Tom eventually retired from the New York State Education Department, where he led a staff of 50 in the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, helping individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment. In his free time, Tom enjoyed golfing and proudly scored a hole-in-one, but just as meaningful to him was volunteering with Hospice, where he offered comfort and kindness to those in need.

Their life together was filled with seasons of joy. Winters were spent in Florida, and summers were enjoyed at their camp on Sacandaga Lake, a place still treasured by their family today. Eventually, with encouragement from their children, Tom and Sue moved to Woodlawn Commons so they could have additional support as they aged.

As Sue’s health needs increased, she transitioned to Wesley Health Care Center. Tom visits her, holding her hand, reminiscing about their journey, and reflecting on the family and life they built together.

Marriage, Tom shared, isn’t always easy. “It has its ups and downs,” he said. “You keep working on it, and you don’t give up on one another.”

This Valentine’s Day, Tom and Sue’s story reminds us that love isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about showing up, holding on, and building a life together, one day at a time.