Since marrying on March 12, 1949, they have worked as a team, Jack serving such groups as Lions, Probus, Joondalup Relay for Life, the Naval Association and Bataan Veterans’ Association, and Kath as his support.
After about 30 years supporting Jack’s commitment to Whitford Lions Club through club projects, fundraisers and more, ‘Devonshire tea expert’ Kath became a member herself last year.
‘The club decided it was time,’ said Jack, who was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day 2012 Honours List. ‘She has been by my side right through absolutely everything.’
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READ NOWThe couple married at St Joachim’s Church in Victoria Park, after meeting through Kath’s father, who worked with Jack at the Post Office in Perth.
They lived in Doubleview and in Melbourne for several years before returning to Perth, settling in Kingsley 29 years ago. The couple have two daughters, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, with another on the way.
‘We’ve had a wonderful life together,’ Jack said.
‘We took my parents advice ” don’t wait until you retire to travel.’
Family, friends, service group colleagues and neighbours are helping them celebrate.