Valley Stream couple renews vows after 65 years

More than a dozen couples were married or renewed their vows on Valentine’s Day at Hempstead Town Hall. One of the couples present was John and Eleanor Passarella, from Valley Stream, celebrating 65 years of marriage by renewing their vows.

Eleanor grew up in the Bronx while her husband was raised in Brooklyn. The couple was originally married in St. Boniface in Queens and they have two daughters and three grandchildren.

Eleanor said that they had been married a long time, but their success came from doing things together. She also added, “Sometimes you just have to give in.”

Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and Town Clerk Mark Bonilla officiated the Valentine’s Day ceremonies.

“Joining two people together in matrimony was one of my most enjoyable town clerk duties and I am thrilled to be able to continue this tradition as supervisor,” said Murray, “It was also wonderful to join our local seniors who demonstrated that they are young at heart and their love is ageless by renewing their vows.”