Bradenton couple celebrates 75th wedding anniversary

MANATEE

A Manatee County couple is celebrating 75 years of wedded bliss.

Walter Furjanic Sr., 96, and Lucille "Sally" Furjanic, 94, said it's a love story that started with love at first sight.

"I saw her at a school dance and I see this little butt walk across the floor and I tell my buddies I'm going to marry that girl," said Walter.

And marry her he did.

At the ages of 21 and 19, respectively, on May 10, 1941, the couple exchanged vows in Gary, Ind., and never looked back.

"I just wanted to have a good time and live," said Sally.

The couple lived through World War II, several moves and a big family.

"We had seven children," said Sally.

"Our oldest is 74. It's been wonderful. They're all married. There are no problems. It's been wonderful."

The couple also has 17 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.

They said the secret to their marriage success is always communicating.

"If you argue, don't try to prove who is right," Walter said. "Just make up."

"That's true," laughed Sally.

The Furjanics are not having a big celebration at this time.

They said they are planning on having a party in July when several family members and friends fly into town from all over the country and world.

Until then, they said they're just taking life one day at a time and enjoying each other's company.

The Furjanics still live independently.

Sally still drives and both are in good health.

This story was originally published May 11, 2016 at 11:02 PM with the headline "Bradenton couple celebrates 75th wedding anniversary ."