Deanne and Bob Lenarduzzi North Vancouver
How did you meet?
Deanne: Bobby and I met during the very first official season of the Vancouver Whitecaps in 1974. My father (Denny Veitch) was an original owner and the GM. My sister and I were team hostesses so we attended a team event, which is where I met Bobby and my sister met her future husband (Daryl Samson).
Tell us about your first date:
Our very first date was to the Spaghetti Factory for lunch. Bobby was a true gentleman. It was memorable as it was the first time we had been completely on our own. It was on that date that we discovered we had this great chemistry and a strong connection. However, we were young and had to go our separate ways after that summer. We tried to keep in touch but soccer, travel, school, and other relationships kept us apart. I moved back to Vancouver after a break-up, and on my first night back in town my friends took me to a nightclub downtown where Bobby and I reconnected. That special chemistry and connection we discovered five years before was stronger than ever. We started dating, quickly fell in love and have been together ever since. That was 34 years ago.
How did he propose?
We dined regularly at a Chinese restaurant near our home in North Vancouver. We were both looking at our menus and out of nowhere Bobby said, "I think it's time to go speak with your dad." I lowered my menu and said, "About what?"
Bobby replied with a spontaneous, "I want to ask him for your hand in marriage." I said, "Are you asking me to marry you?"
With a beautiful grin on his face he said, "Yes," and asked me to marry him and I said, "Yes." He then announced it to the owner of the restaurant who announced it to the entire room and brought over champagne. There was no plan; it was very spontaneous, which made it so special and a moment in time we both cherish.
Where and when was your wedding?
On Nov. 28, 1981, in North Vancouver, at Highlands United Church.
How do you like to spend time together?
We have date night once a week and enjoy a casual dinner with a great bottle of Pinot Noir. We also like walks and hikes with our dogs in our spare time. But most of all we love our home and just like to hang out there together.
What do you like most about each other?
Deanne: What I like most about my husband (besides his good looks, charm and charismatic personality) is how he looks at me and makes me feel. No matter where we are, when he looks at me, he always makes me feel like I am the most beautiful woman in the room. I love that about him.
Bobby: Aside from the fact that Deanne looks as good now as when we first met, it would have to be her incredible loyalty and belief. During our 31 years of marriage and my involvement in the ups and downs of professional soccer, there were times that I probably should have considered another profession. Throughout all this, Deanne never wavered and never questioned my willingness to pursue my passion. This same loyalty and belief also applies to our two children, Ryan and Sunny, who she encourages in the same way.
What is your secret for lasting love?
We are best friends who have always been able to stay interested and interesting to one another. We do not take each other for granted. Family is our first priority but we have always made time for just us. We have two rules: Never go to bed angry and never break a trust.
What are your plans for Valentine's Day?
Dinner at our favourite restaurant and a quiet evening at home.
