Paul and Jeanne Carlson celebrate 70th anniversary June 16

Paul and Jeanne Carlson of Milton celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary Thursday, June 16. Paul Carlson, 92, and Jeanne Kelly Carlson, 88, were born, raised, and fell in love in McKeesport, Pa.

They met roller skating at Olympia Roller Rink 72 years ago, and were married two years later in Cumberland, Md., which was a tradition for couples in the area at that time. Their wedding dinner was at the mother of the bride’s home where they were serenaded by neighborhood children who they then showered with pennies, another tradition.

Paul bravely served in the U.S. Army for two years in France, Germany, and Belgium during World War II. Afterward, he returned to his previous position in accounting at U.S. Steel, from which he later retired after 30 years of service. Paul and Jeanne were blessed with four children, who occupied much of Jeanne’s time. After retirement, Paul and Jeanne moved to Delaware more than 40 years ago.

The couple enjoys gardening, spending time with their family, and sharing their life experiences and most of all, their love for Jesus Christ, with others. They are often seen making friends and passing out religious tracts and booklets everywhere they go.

Their oldest son, Paul G. Carlson of Newark and Lewes, passed away several years ago. Their other children are Charles "Bud" Carlson and wife Jane of Camden, Carole Sieber and husband John of Lewes, and Darlene Cordeaux and husband John of Ocean View.  They also have 10 grandchildren who love them dearly.  Their oldest grandson, Charles Paul Carlson of Camden, who passed away Dec. 28, 2010, is greatly missed by Paul and Jeanne and the entire family. The other grandchildren are Kathleen Fintak of Newark,  Daniel Carlson of Newark, Jennifer Tietbohl of Lewes, Zack Sieber of Lewes, Charles "Chuck" Coleman of Frankford,  David Coleman of Frankford, John Cordeaux of Bethany Beach, Kristin Carlson of Florida, and Amy Borland of New Jersey. Paul and Jeanne love spending time with their 10 great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Alex and Kaitlyn Fintak; Andrew and Elizabeth Carlson; Maryann and Elizabeth Tietbohl, Christina Coleman; Kelly Carlson and Paulina Carlson.

The Carlsons' children, grandchildren and friends say, "Happy 70th anniversary. We love you both."