Watch CBS News

Couple Married 70 Years Celebrates Return Of Love Letters Stolen 4 Decades Ago

RANCHO CUCAMONGA (CBSLA.com) — A Rancho Cucamonga couple has been married 70 years. Amazing in itself.

But recently, they got a huge surprise.

A box of love letters that were stolen from their home more than 40 years ago was recently returned to them.

Lloyd and Marion Michael spoke to CBS2 and KCAL9 reporter Brittney Hopper Saturday about their love, their longevity as a couple and their treasure trove of letters.

Lloyd said, "It just has been extremely emotional for both of us.  And our kids have read a couple of the letters." Marion interjects, "You have a tear," as she sweetly brushes it from his face. He says, "I know dear."

When Lloyd went off to war, their love letters kept their hope, and relationship, alive.

She explains, "I just lived for the day when the postman would bring a letter. You know, it was the only way we communicated. The only way we had any touch with each other."

Forty years ago, the letters were in a box in their home. Their home was broken into and the box --  filled with hundreds of love letters -- was stolen.

Then they received a phone call recently, from a man who said he was also a veteran. The man tracked Lloyd through the military. The Good Samaritan told Lloyd: 'I think I have something you want.'

And Lloyd says, "And the man told me, 'I knew these had to get back to where they belonged.' And they came home."

The letters were returned just before the Michaels celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on New Year's Eve. They say it's a miracle.

The Michaels say they plan to start reading their love letters every day to each other.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.