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Bentley retirees say age is no barrier to finding love

Pia van StraalenCanning Gazette

JOHN Wynmalen and Maureen Jacobs are proof that true love can be found at any age.

The pair, 69 and 70 years old respectively, was recently engaged, after meeting in the retirement village in Bentley four years ago at a dinner club.

The couple, moved in together in September, have five children between them, as well as 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren – and admit they did not expect to fall in love so deeply in their later years.

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“I don’t think either of us were really looking for anyone, we just formed a lovely friendship as a result of both going along to the regular SwanCare diners club meals, and that evolved into a deep love for each other,” said Maureen.

“I think a lot of people think as you get older that love passes you by, but that’s not true and I think you can find love at any age, sometimes even when you’re not looking for it.”

Mr Wynmalen, who was born in The Hague in the Netherlands and migrated to Australia in 1962, said laughter was the key to their love.

“We’re so happy together, I think you have to maintain a sense of humour as you get older and be able to laugh at yourself, and Maureen and I really have a lot of fun,” he said.

“I don’t think either of us expected to find love at our age, it’s just wonderful that we have and I think it’s fair to say we both feel like we’re 17 again, not 70.”

The pair will be married at SwanCare’s J.P. Stratton Centre in Bentley Park on March 11 before jetting off for a wildlife safari honeymoon in South Africa the next day.

SwanCare chief executive Graham Francis said the organisation was delighted for the pair.

“Maureen and John are quite obviously so happy together which is wonderful to see, and I know that their friends, neighbours and also the staff here at SwanCare are truly happy for them and very excited for them both as their wedding day approaches,” he said.