Bill Hassinger and Joanne Blakkan find love again after 73 Years

In a tale as timeless as love itself, Bill Hassinger, 90, and Joanne Blakkan, 92, high school sweethearts have proven that true affection knows no bounds of time or distance, as they reunited after 73 years apart. The pair, who first met as teenagers on their way to North Muskegon High School in Michigan, share a love story that has captivated hearts.

Their romance blossomed on daily school bus rides, with Blakkan, then a junior, saving a seat for Hassinger, a freshman. The young couple went on to experience the joys of high school together, including attending prom in 1949. However, as life took them in different directions, with Blakkan heading to college and both eventually marrying others, their early love story was tucked away in the past.

Decades later, following the passing of their respective spouses, fate intervened when Blakkan’s daughter, intrigued by her mother’s high school days, discovered Hassinger was living just 80 miles away. Encouraged by her daughter, Blakkan reached out to Hassinger, leading to a reunion that would rekindle their long-lost love.

Despite the passage of time, their connection was immediate and undeniable. Hassinger recalls falling for Blakkan “all over again,” while Blakkan, initially hesitant, soon realized the depth of her feelings. The couple now cherishes every moment together, understanding the preciousness of time at their age.

Today, Hassinger and Blakkan maintain their bond by visiting each other every other weekend and celebrating special occasions together. They enjoy simple pleasures such as playing card games, completing puzzles, and spending time with each other’s families, who have embraced their remarkable love story.

Their story serves as a heartfelt reminder that it’s never too late to pursue happiness and love. As Blakkan advises, when you find someone you’re compatible with, no matter your age, “just go for it.”