Verona Couple Celebrate 70th Wedding Anniversary

VERONA, NJ — The following letter to the editor comes courtesy of Dolores Schmidt. Send local news tips, photos and press releases to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Geri and Walter Koprowski recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary surrounded by family at the Honorable Walter Koprowski Jr. and his wife’s home in Verona.

The couple was overjoyed to have their grandchildren, Andrew and Jillian and their spouses, as well as their great grandchildren, Ryan, Emily and Walt at the celebration. Ford, their youngest great grandchild, lives in Texas with grandson Tim and his wife. Although they were unable to attend, they sent a loving congratulatory message.Extended family members, who affectionately and consistently participated and shared in their lives, also joined in the festivities.

The former Jersey City residents were married at Our Lady of Victories Church in Jersey City on August 2, 1947.Walter Sr. (Kuppy) supported his family as a shipping and receiving clerk at Lightolier Inc. for almost 35 years. Geri, an outstanding cook, had a short stint as a business owner, but was primarily a homemaker. Together they raised a daughter and two sons: Dolores Schmidt, Walter Koprowski, Jr. and the late James Koprowski. Following his retirement and a well-deserved Hawaiian vacation, Geri and Walter moved to Verona. Walter Sr., gregarious by nature and accustom to a busy life, searched and found a post retirement job at the Prout Funeral Home. As he says, he was eager and happy to “undertake a new career.” After working part time for 20 plus years at his new “so-called career,” he retired for the last time.

Following the party, the couple - ages 89 and 96 - were heard to say: “This was so much fun! I can’t wait for next year and our 71st anniversary!”

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