For over 75 years, Tony and Vina Borrero have devoted their hearts to each other. This year, the couple will celebrate their 76th Valentine’s Day together. Through the years the two have collected a lifetime of beautiful memories that highlight their love and passion for each other. Today, at 102 and 98 years old, Tony and Vina continue their inspiring love story at Cedarwood at Sandy, a senior living community located in Sandy, Utah.
Their love story began in 1944 when Tony was stationed for the Air Force in Fort Douglas, Utah. The two met through mutual friends and had an instant spark. Upon setting up a formal date, they hit if off instantly and the rest was history. After getting married two years later in 1946, the couple shared some of their best memories as they traveled across the world for the military. Some of their favorite moments comprised of going ballroom dancing together and enjoying frequent nights-out at their favorite restaurants. From Utah to across the globe in places such as Japan, Morocco and San Francisco their love never wavered. As their love expanded, so did their family, as Tony and Vina went on to have two sons who 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!”
Support & Care
Since moving to Cedarwood two years ago, the love between Tony and Vina has only grown stronger. A prime example is Tony’s steady support and care for Vina in sickness and in health. Over time, Vina has experienced various health struggles, and is now fully blind. Fortunately for Vina, she married a man who intended to do as much as he could to help and support her no matter what. At 102, Tony takes care of Vina every day. 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.
“Tony 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 has a deep love for his wife and maintains that he intends to uphold the vows he made to Vina on the day he married her. He’s adamant in his devotion and intends to do everything he can each day to support and care for his sweetheart. “I am glad to help her, because I love her so much,” states Tony. “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.”
Lifetime of Love
The couple’s love and devotion are evident to everyone at Cedarwood. Many associates and other residents admire the warmth and tenderness expressed when the couple speaks of one another, and how their radiant love is emanated through their care for 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.”