A love story for the ages: Tony and Vina celebrate 76th Valentines Day
Feb 11, 2022, 12:14 PM | Updated: Feb 12, 2022, 7:34 pm
SANDY, Utah — One couple is looking forward to spending their 76th Valentine’s Day together. Tony and Vina Borrero have devoted their hearts to each other for 75 years since they met in 1944.
Today at ages 102 and 98, Tony and Vina continue their relationship at Cedarwood Senior Living Community in Sandy, Utah.
Their love story began when Tony was stationed in Fort Douglas for the Air Force. They were introduced by mutual friends and described it as an instant spark. They set up a formal date and the rest is history.
They were married two years later in 1946. Since then, the two have been across the globe from San Fransisco to Japan to Morocco. Tony and Vina say their favorite moments include eating out at their favorite restaurants and going ballroom dancing.
Through the years, Tony and Vina’s love grew and so did their family. They had two sons who have also served in the Air Force and Army.
“I learned early on in marriage to always say ‘yes dear’,” says Tony. “The key to a long and happy marriage is to respect and love each other, and to never speak harshly to one another. You can’t lose with a formula like that!”
In sickness…in health… Tony and Vina have maintained their strong relationship today despite various health challenges including Vina going completely blind. At 102, Tony continues to care for Vina every day. A release from Cedarwood stated, “He walks with her around the community, helps her with daily tasks such as eating and accompanies her to live music performances, their favorite pastime at Cedarwood.” They’ve lived in Cedarwood Assisted Living for two years now.
“He is everything you could want in a lifelong partner,” says Vina. “He has such a kind heart, and each day I grow more thankful to have him by my side.”
Tony maintains his deep love for his wife and his intention to uphold the vows he made on the day he married Vina.
“I am glad to help her, because I love her so much,” Tony said. “She’s just such a wonderful person. She’s made me the person I am today, and she’s the best wife I could ever have.”
According to a statement from Cedarwood, the couple’s love and devotion are evident to everyone there. Their love is emanated in the care they give each other every day.
“It is a pleasure to witness the true love between Tony and Vina,” says Austin Sorenson, executive director of Cedarwood at Sandy. “It is apparent that they maintain a deep love and care for each other. Their love story is an inspiration to the entire community, and it warms my heart to see it continue to flourish at Cedarwood.”