Matters of the Heart
The Johnstons prove it can be done: 50 years of mutual respect and no arguing
by Chuck Wisman
In 1973, a gallon of gas was 40¢, a Morton’s TV dinner was 36¢, and for the first time, women could serve on juries in all 50 states. It was also the same year David Johnston and Grace Penhallegon married.
More specifically, the couple was married on December 1, after a six-month courtship. At the time, Grace worked in accounting at Rockwell and David at the Dana Corporation, both in Chelsea. They first met through mutual friends, via a blind date. Both knew from day one that they wished to spend their lives together. They were each impressed by the other’s honesty and mutual respect, and both describe the other as “down to earth.”
David and Grace have resided in the Gregory area since their wedding, including 44 years at their current address. They describe themselves as primarily opposites when it comes to their interests; yet, they report never arguing or raising their voices with one another. An avid outdoorsman, David has enjoyed cutting wood and gardening most of his life. Grace served 61 years in the choir of the First Congregational Church of Chelsea. For many, many years she was also a popular and renowned baker and decorator of cakes for weddings, birthdays, and graduations in our area.
Both David and Grace are most proud of their two very successful sons, Paul and Dan. Dan currently lives in Portland, Oregon, and Paul in Stockbridge. Coincidentally, the sons each have one son.
When Paul was delivered at the old St. Joe’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, David was busy parking the car after dropping off Grace at the hospital. It was a fast and easy delivery, reported Grace, so quick, in fact, that David actually asked the identity of the baby upon arriving in the delivery room.
Considering their long and successful marriage, one would think Valentine’s Day would be memorable; however, both David and Grace simply describe it as “just another day.”
Their recommendation to others considering marriage today is to respect and love one another through honesty and patience. It has certainly worked for this couple; David and Grace could easily go another 50 years in a very successful and happy marriage.
Photos provided by David and Grace Johnston.
David Johnston and Grace (Penhallegon) Johnston knew from day one they wished to spend their lives together.
The Johnstons advice to those considering marriage today: Respect and love one another through honesty and patience.
