Seventy years later, Brad and Linda S. are still walking through life — often quite literally — hand-in-hand.
The longtime couple, now residents at The Chateau at Gardnerville, first crossed paths in 1953 as students in junior college in Woodland Hills, California. Two years later, on August 19, 1955, they were married — kicking off a journey that has spanned seven decades, countless family dinners, and plenty of long walks.
To celebrate the pair’s impressive milestone, The Chateau team hosted a dinner party with a thoughtful twist. Dining Server and Concierge Maddelynn surprised Brad, who is blind, with a homemade cake crafted just for him, with M&M lettering in braille, so he could fully share in the celebration with Linda.
“Brad and Linda have a way of making everyone around them smile,” said Katie Nichols, Executive Director of The Chateau at Gardnerville. “It’s inspiring to see how much they still enjoy the simple things — holding hands, sharing stories, and finding time for one another every day.”

Residents joined in on the fun, offering congratulations as a framed photo and a brief write-up of the couple’s story were placed at the community’s front desk and kitchen entrance — a nod to seven decades of life, love, and partnership.
When asked about their secret to a happy marriage, Linda’s advice was: “Long walks and patience,” she said, with Brad agreeing.
Where Every Moment Matters
At The Chateau at Gardnerville, we recognize life’s milestones — big and small — alongside our residents. Here, neighbors rally around one another, creating a community rooted in care, laughter, and shared experiences. Schedule your tour today and see how we make every day worth celebrating.
