Wedded bliss: Sterling Heights couple celebrates 70 years of marriage

Donald and Joyce Young of Sterling Heights celebrated a remarkable milestone on July 2 — 70 years of marriage.

Surrounded by five children, 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, the Youngs’ love story, which is rooted in faith, kindness and unwavering commitment, continues to inspire generations.

Donald W. Young, 93, and Joyce E. (Harding) Young, 89, first met in 1953 in Spokane, Washington, while Donald was stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base during his service in the U.S. Air Force.

He recalls with fondness the first phone call he made to her, the arrangements they made to attend a dance at the Warehouse, and the YMCA building in Spokane where they met — an unexpected place with a special legacy of its own.

“There was a plaque above the phone booth that said that building was where Father’s Day originated,” Donald said. “It was a neat coincidence, especially now when I tell the story around Father’s Day.”

After dating for two years, the couple married on July 2, 1955, in Spokane.

Not long after, Donald was discharged from the military, and the newlyweds moved to Michigan, eventually settling in St. Clair Shores. There, they raised their five children (Lori, Walter, Lynn, John and Jeffery) before relocating to Sterling Heights in 1972. All five children graduated from Stevenson High School.

Donald built his career at General Motors, working at the Fisher Body division of the GM Tech Center for nearly three decades. Joyce dedicated herself to volunteering, contributing over 30 years of service at Mt. Clemens General Hospital, now McLaren Macomb. Their devotion extended beyond their work into their family, their community, and, most significantly, each other.

To mark the milestone anniversary, family members from Ohio, Grand Rapids, Stanwood, Lake City, and Clinton Township will gather in Sterling Heights for a joyful celebration. There are no grand surprises planned, just the presence of loved ones who recognize the extraordinary power of a steady, faithful love story.

”What we admire the most is how they have shared their unwavering, unconditional love for each other for 70 years of marriage,” said their daughter, Lori Ensign. “It has been remarkable to see over that span of time, and through life’s challenges, raising a family of five.”

When asked what he believes is the secret to 70 happy years, Donald doesn’t hesitate.

“We’ve been in love since day one,” he said. “Looking back, I can honestly say we never had a big disagreement. It’s kind of amazing. Of course, we had our ups and downs, raising five kids isn’t easy, but Joyce did such a great job, especially while I was working. They all turned out to be great kids, and I’m really proud of them.”

His advice to couples starting out today?

“Support each other. That’s what we’ve done for seven decades.”

The Youngs’ marriage has left a lasting imprint on their children and grandchildren.

“Their marriage has shown us what a marriage should truly be, and everything we could imagine it to be. We value that they have allowed us to make our own decisions, and have supported us with gentle guidance and grace,” Ensign said. “They taught us to be grateful for what the Lord has provided us, and to be charitable to those in need.”

After 70 years, the Youngs don’t dwell on extravagant stories or dramatic gestures. Their legacy is built on day-to-day devotion, small acts of kindness, and a shared belief in family and faith.

“Their love is a testament of unwavering love, commitment, faithfulness, kindness, and a true love story through the years,” Ensign said.