VIDEO: Married 67 years, Regina couple dancing through life together

Cec and Lillian Chapman still have a swing in their step 67 years after first meeting at a dance in Regina.

A 20-year-old member of the army who was just transferred to Regina went to the dance one evening with his friends. They spotted three young woman standing near the entrance that night. One of them was Lillian and Cec hasn’t stopped dancing with her since.

“We kept meeting at these dances, it seemed like, and then a year-and-a-half later we got married,” said Cec.

It was a small wedding at Grace Lutheran Church in Regina which they still attend. Lillian’s sister made the supper that August evening in 1947. They now have three children, eight grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

In 1981, the Chapmans made one of the best decisions of their lives. They joined the Regina Senior Citizens Centre where they’ve enjoyed their passion of dancing twice each week for over 30 years.

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It’s obvious dancing has played a big role their relationship but the Chapmans say the secret to a long marriage is simple — listen and always be there for each other.

“You have little disagreements once and a while but it’s something that’s never too serious,” he said.

Lillian also stressed the importance of talking things out. She feels many relationships fail about because people don’t discuss their problems.

When it comes to chivalry, they believe it’s still alive but they just don’t see it as often anymore.

Although dancing is still a common way for people to meet, the dating scene has changed dramatically since Cec and Lillian met.

When they were shown an example of today’s online dating, specifically the smartphone app Tinder, they were a little shocked.

“I don’t know about that,” said Lillian

“I think I favour the old way,” said Cec.

After 67 years of marriage, they say the spark is not lost and they still celebrate Valentines Day. The Chapmans say they keep it simple and go out for a quiet dinner.

news@panow.com 

On Twitter:@princealbertnow