Surrounded by their loving family, Palmerton couple Connie and Dick Bieling celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, Sept. 10.

They both attended Holy Trinity High School in Westfield, New Jersey, and were in the same graduating class, but they did not become a couple until their senior class trip.

The couple married while Dick was still enrolled in the University of Missouri, School of Mines. After graduation, Dick’s acceptance of a job offer with the New Jersey Zinc Company brought the family to the Palmerton area, where they have since resided.

Together they raised their seven children, although sadly, they lost their daughter Virginia to leukemia when she was 6.

Throughout the years, both have been active in the community and Towamensing Township. They now stay busy in their home and enjoy the company and dedicated care of their family.