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In the summer of 1953, Margie and Bud's young romance began at a Midwest county fair in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Margie, then 17, was a dancer with Avery Production Company, and Bud, 21, worked nights at a paper mill while attending college. Their bond was forged during a memorable evening of milk with ice cubes and Stan Kenton's jazz at Bud's home, and by the end of that summer, they were inseparable.
Margie returned to Illinois for her senior year, while Bud continued his studies and work. Despite the distance, their relationship flourished through letters and weekend visits.
In 1954, Margie's high school graduation also marked their engagement. However, societal pressures and personal ambitions led Margie to end the engagement. She returned the ring to Bud and pursued her career dream of owning a dance studio.
Their lives diverged. Margie married another man and had children, though her husband passed away when their children were young. Bud also moved on and married someone else. Despite the heartache, Bud kept the engagement ring, a symbol of his enduring affection.
Decades later, after enduring a difficult marriage of 40 years that ended in divorce due to her husband's abusive behavior, Margie found herself reconnecting with Bud through Facebook. Bud, who had cherished the ring all these years, proposed once more. This time, Margie accepted with full confidence in their love.
At 77 and 81, respectively, Margie and Bud married in a heartfelt ceremony by their Florida pool, surrounded by close family. Margie danced a hula for Bud, symbolizing their enduring connection. For Margie's daughter, Melania, Bud became the father figure she had always longed for, offering her the unconditional love and support she had missed.
Though their time together was brief—Bud passed away four years later—their reunion brought profound joy and closure. Margie's and Bud's story is a testament to the power of enduring love and the possibilities of second chances.
