The Dijkstra-Van der Sluis couple celebrates their diamond wedding anniversary

Pieter Dijkstra (83) and Aaltje van der Sluis (81) of Burgum celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, May 12. To mark this special occasion, Mayor Kanter Breuker paid them a visit to congratulate them in person.

Their love story began on July 2, 1961, when they met on the Julianabank near the town hall of (what was then) Tietsjerksteradiel. More than five years later, they tied the knot and moved to Burgum. The couple had five children: three sons and two daughters, one of whom has sadly already passed away.

Mr. Dijkstra worked as a photographer and pilot, with a particular passion for aerial photography. In addition, he founded the Observatory in Burgum and gave lectures on creation and evolution. Mrs. Dijkstra-Van der Sluis worked at the Friesch Rundvee Stamboek, an accounting firm in Leeuwarden, and later as a payroll clerk at Noppert Betonfabriek in Sumar.

Both retired at the age of 65. In his spare time, Mr. Dijkstra remained active in photography. Mrs. Dijkstra-Van der Sluis continued her work with the Cercle d’Amis Foundation, a cause she has been dedicated to since 1986. Through this foundation, she helps underprivileged children from Paris and the surrounding area, who stay with host families in Belgium and the Netherlands several times a year. She also enjoys crafts, reading, and doing puzzles.

They are now enjoying their family and all that life has brought them. The couple is celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary with family and friends. And they are grateful to be able to celebrate this special milestone together.