Rand Aid’s Thornhill Manor retirement village is home to many cherished residents, but few have a love story as enduring and heartwarming as Dawn and Brian Burls, who celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 24.
Surrounded by fond memories, treasured friendships and a life built on mutual love and respect, the couple look back on six remarkable decades of marriage – a journey that began with a heartfelt ceremony filled with friends and family and a first dance to The Loveliest Night of the Year, which still brings a smile to their faces.
“We were so lucky to have both our parents and friends celebrate with us,” says Dawn, reflecting on that special day.
Their path together has taken them from Pretoria, where both matriculated – Dawn from Pretoria Girls’ High and Brian from Pretoria Boys’ High – to successful and fulfilling careers. Dawn became a qualified nursing sister and midwife, dedicating her professional life to educating communities about Aids and tuberculosis. Brian worked as a telephone technician before moving into the pharmaceutical industry as a medical representative and training manager.
Outside of work, both found joy in the Edenvale Bowls Club, where they played for 20 years. Dawn was selected to represent the East Rand District for four years, while Brian skipped the premier league team. Today, their hobbies continue to keep them active – Dawn tends to her garden and reads, while Brian shares his love for music with the Thornhill Manor community, often singing at village events alongside his friend Gavin Standing.
Song and dance
“I’ve always loved music,” says Brian. “It started with my dad playing the banjo and singing old-time songs on the farm. There was no radio or TV, just music in the kitchen.”
Brian sang in the school choir and operettas and still sings in the church choir.
Together, they also share a passion for dancing. “We just love to dance when the occasion presents itself,” says Brian. “It’s such a joyful way to stay connected.”
With two children – Donovan and Vauneen – both living in Cape Town, and four beloved grandchildren, family remains at the heart of their lives.
The couple has lived at Thornhill Manor since 2003, and describe their 22 years there as ‘happy and secure’. “It’s taken away the stress and worry,” they say, “and allowed us to build new friendships.”
They believe the secret to 60 years of love lies in patience, lots of love and caring. Brian also adds a touch of humour, noting that tolerance – and two simple words, “Yes, dear” – go a long way.
To young couples just starting out, Dawn and Brian offer simple yet powerful advice: “Be tolerant of one another’s faults.”
And maybe, don’t forget to dance when the music starts.
Brian and Dawn Burls on their wedding day 60 years ago.
