This couple lived together for 73 years. When Helen Auer, 94, took her last breath her husband, Joe, leaned down to kiss her one last time. The 100-vear-old whispered 'Helen, call me home." A few hours later Joe passed away.
The Auers of Cincinnati, Ohio, had a truly special bond. Their ten children alwavs knew that Joe would not be able to live long without Helen.
Married for 73 vears, the Auers survived the Great Depression and World War II together During the war, in 1944, Joe carried a phota of Helen and their first two children in his pocket. The picture remained in his wallet all these vears. It was found there after Joe's death and will be buried next to him The children remember their mother as a loving and lively woman - the one who held the family together their entire lives. Joe was a reserved and deeply religious man who considered his children, along with Helen, a gift from God The Auers were always smiling. Even in the last photos taken together, thev look serene and happy
Their youngest son, Jerry, 58, says his parents worked hard on their relationship, despite the distance and financial difficulties.
He confesses: "They were modest and simple people. They asked for nothing and received everything in return."
'My parents are an example to follow. Their relationship deserves all the admiration." Joe was right - he was blessed from above. The couple lived to see the birth of 16 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild Joe and Helen's funerals will take place in the same church where they were married many years ago..