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30 Years Strong: Larry and Monica Mills Say 'True Respect' is Key

In honor of Valentine's Day, we're taking a look at some of Ferndale's cutest couples.

Ferndale has its fair share of lovebirds, so we decided to check in with a few of them before Valentine's Day and ask them to share relationship and date night secrets.

Today, we take a closer look at what makes Ferndale residents Larry and Monica Mills so sweet.

How long have you been together?

Married 30 years, dated 9 years, met at St James standing up at Larry's brother's wedding.  

What’s the secret to a successful and happy relationship?

True respect, common interest but also separate interest.

We do enjoy the events we work on and cheer each other on when stressed or tired.  When apart it is fun to bring back the stories.

What famous couple would you compare yourselves to?

Heart to Heart (80's TV adventure couple) but Larry does all the driving and not as much danger.

Why did you settle in Ferndale, and how long have you lived here?

Larry has lived here his whole life.  I moved to the house we now own in 1979 to assist a family member and a bonus, I was able walk to work at F&M, now Buffalo Wild Wings. We wanted to be close to our folks and invested to much sweat-equity in the home to ever want to leave. We love our neighbors and how everyone looks out for each other.

What’s your favorite romantic night out in Ferndale and why?

When we started dating, sitting by the backyard built in pool at his folks home which inspired the ponds Larry built and maintains in our yard.

We receive so much support for our events from the many downtown venues we often walk to and patronize.  Often start at Boogie Fever, speaking of good neighbors and wonder to other FUNdale friendly finds.  Each has its own charm for the type of adventure we might be looking for.  We always appreciate that home and our ponds are very close by.  Wait maybe we are the couple from Golden Pond.        

Greg Pawlica February 13, 2013 at 03:47 pm
I love Monica and Larry! They are a huge part of what makes Ferndale an awesome community.
Craig S. Covey February 13, 2013 at 05:41 pm
Me too. Put me at the top of the list of membes of the Larry and Monica (Laronica) Fan Club.
Craig S. Covey February 13, 2013 at 05:42 pm
u r right, Mr. Pawlica. They are iconic Ferndalians, and epitomize what is great and cool about this town.
Cheryl February 14, 2013 at 11:08 am
What great article, they are truly inspiring !!
charlene flaherty February 16, 2013 at 05:16 pm
I've been a member of the Larry & Monica Mills fan club for years. They have always put their creative ideas into action for the city to enjoy. Every city needs a "Larry & Monica"

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Melanie Piana June 11, 2013 at 01:17 pm
The FESC is an important steward of the City’s environmental values and goals, and its membersRead More have performed valuable education programming and environmental policy support on behalf of all Ferndale residents. It was clear, however, the FESC and the city needed to revisit the mission and vision to make sure the group was focused on activities that could make the greatest impact. I worked with the FESC to brainstorm a new mission and purpose ideas with members and helped rewrite the draft ordinance in a collaborative effort with FESC and city staff. I'm happy to say we've made steady progress; last night the city manager and I met with FESC members to review the new ordinance language, and the group's renewel request will come to council on June 24th. Together, we had a great meeting and I believe FESC members are excited about the clearer alignment between FESC interests and the City’s environmental goals. Yes, it did take a bit longer than anticipated, but in the end I believe we'll have a stronger direction for FESC for years to come.
Craig Covey June 11, 2013 at 02:12 pm
Here is a great idea: Let's not have the city automatically water its lawns after two days of rain.Read More That would save water, reduce costs, and not contribute to increased storm water runoff.
Terry Poduska June 5, 2013 at 10:27 am
The South Oakland Family YMCA is hosting a FREE Adult Health Fair - Get Healthy at the Y - onRead More Thursday, June 6 from 10am - 1pm. Free diabetes Screenings - Free Blood Pressure Checks - Free Massages. There will be free exercise session and 5 different speakers. Free lunch will be provided. 20 vendors will be present - chance to win a free 3 month membership to the Y. 1016 W. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI