After 60 years of marriage, Robert (Rocky) and Cynthia Aronowitz are still enjoying a good game – although these days, the court has shrunk considerably.
In their heyday, the couple loved playing tennis. Now residents of Tarentaal Retirement Village, they have swapped the tennis court for the table tennis table, proving that while they may be getting older, they have certainly not put down their rackets.
The couple, who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on July 31, first met at the then-Yeoville swimming baths before saying ‘I do’ at an evening wedding at a Johannesburg restaurant in 1966.
“I walked down the beautiful staircase with its hanging chandeliers,” recalls Cynthia.
The couple went on to have two children and three grandchildren, who now live in New South Wales, Australia, and Texas, US. Despite the distance, the Aronowitzes see their family at least once a year and say they remain an important part of their lives.
Their son recently travelled from Texas to take his parents to Sun City for an unforgettable anniversary celebration.
Cynthia worked in the make-up section of a pharmacy, while Rocky was an accountant.
The couple moved to Tarentaal in May 2025, with Cynthia describing the village as their ‘safe haven’.
Although she admits it was not easy to adapt to life in a retirement village, they are now beginning to enjoy its many benefits and feel blessed to be part of such a caring community.
Cynthia has also embraced one of her favourite hobbies, jewellery-making. She sells her creations at the village’s morning market and nearby flea markets, with Rocky lending a hand by helping to set up her stall.
Asked what has helped their relationship stand the test of time, Cynthia says hard work and perseverance, while Rocky believes it is important for couples to maintain their individual interests.
“Live and let live… don’t sweat the small stuff,” is Cynthia’s advice to younger generations.
“Always be kind and treat your partner with respect,” adds Rocky.
