ROCHELLE — Jim Moorehead reflected on his nearly eight decades of marriage.

“We’ve had a good life, and lots of good things happened to us over the years,” he said.

On Jan. 24, Jim and his wife, Marnie, will be celebrating their 79^thwedding anniversary — a milestone very few married couples reach.

The Rochelle community often sees Jim running errands, stopping at the post office and at the senior center for coffee. To this day he is still an active member in Rochelle Kiwanis Golden K.

The 98-year old enjoys sharing how he and Marnie, 96, still live independently in their own home.

He also enjoys sharing stories all about Rochelle, including time served on the Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District board as a commissioner, including the acquisition of Lake Sule and the building of Spring Lake Pool.

Around this time last year as they were preparing for their 78^thanniversary, the couple was asked what the key to a successful and long-term marriage is.

“Think of the other person first,” Marnie replied. “That and having flexibility.”

And as anyone knows Jim, they are familiar with his quick wit and sense of humor.

“The key is very simple … yes dear, yes dear, yes dear and yes dear,” Jim replied with a chuckle.

A very fine year

The year was 1940 — when the Great Depression finally began to ease, the average new home cost $4,000, a gallon of gas went for 11 cents and the average price for a new car was $850.

Fast forward 79 years.

With a smile, Jim talked about his son, Butch, daughter, Cherrie; and the many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He also talked about the years that have gone by.

“I can’t complain at all … I’ve had a good marriage, a good family. It’s been a good life,” he added.