It's all about having someone to stay busy with

Babe and Kenny Anderson still live on the same farmstead, near the historic Moody Round Barn, that they bought 71 years ago, which in itself is pretty remarkable. But it pales in comparison to the anniversary they celebrate next week with loved ones, as they mark 72 years of marriage. The “childhood sweethearts” who met growing up in St. Paul wed September 6, 1940, which was also Babe’s mother’s birthdate. Six continues to be their lucky number with six grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren now part of their legacy. Their union has endured wartime, the unpredictable life of farming, and the rearing of three daughters: Linnae Frans, Sharlene Arnold and Dawn Johnson. Babe chalks up their record-setting matrimonial longevity to “keeping busy.” She and Kenneth danced in the community Swedish folk dance group and kept active pursuing other interests. Babe points out, “We still mow an acre and a half.” In her early 90s now, she does her 50 situps and stretching routine every morning. Kenneth will be 95 in October.