Love that never goes away: The couple of the century from Wilhelmshaven!

Love that never goes away: The couple of the century from Wilhelmshaven!

“Here comes a couple that really warms people’s hearts!” This is how a viewer describes the married couple Ruth and Hans Stasch from Wilhelmshaven, who were seen in the NDR series “Century Love” on June 9, 2025. Married for 69 years, their marriage shows how important love, humor and a little lightness are in life. Her granddaughter Pia had signed her up for the series without her knowledge, which made for a few exciting days of filming at the harbor.

Whether playing boules or singing in the shanty choir, the couple is active in their community and enjoys their time together. In fact, it all started quite innocently when Hans spotted Ruth in the window of the “Strumpfhaus Elisabeth” in 1951 and asked her about an evening at the cinema. However, their first contact also involved a little joke when Hans threw her a snowball, which undoubtedly broke the ice between the two of them NWZonline reported.

A life full of memories

Ruth, born on April 2, 1933, had a strict childhood and learned the trade in textile sales. Hans, who was born in Upper Silesia on November 25, 1931, had to deal with numerous moves and traumas from his escape from the Red Army in 1945. Her marriage “dowry” was modest – a floor lamp and a bicycle. Nevertheless, they married in 1956 when Ruth was pregnant. The couple's great happiness is their three children: Uwe, Andreas and Martina, who, together with five grandchildren and a great-grandchild, strengthen the family bond.

What is her secret? Ruth emphasizes that “close family ties and open communication” are crucial, while Hans adds with a wink that he “maybe should help more around the house” to keep the balance. The value of affection and mutual support is considered a cornerstone of their relationship and is reflected in the advice of relationship experts, who often identify similar characteristics in long-term relationships, such as regular conversations, admiration and shared rituals, according to the website Space for you.

Shared experiences as the meaning of life

Whether they are relaxing at the harbor or meeting regularly for sporting activities, Rah and Hans are an excellent example of the importance of creating shared experiences to keep the relationship fresh and lively. During the filming of “The Love of the Century” there was even a mishap with a broken lamp, which lightened up the filming and reinforced the importance of remaining calm even in stressful situations. Ruth describes the experience as exciting and pleasant, while Johann shares his nostalgic memories of their first meetings with a charming smile.

At a time when fast relationships often shape the image of today's couple dynamics, Ruth and Hans Stasch show that the power of love, coupled with humor and a sense of community, is the key to a happy long-term relationship. As the saying goes: “Having a good hand” also applies in marriage! And so the two of them continue to plan numerous shared experiences that will make their hearts beat faster.