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

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.