Yukon couple hold record for longest marriage in country

A couple in Ross River, Yukon, who have been married since 1932, are believed to hold the record for the longest marriage in Canada, according to Worldwide Marriage Encounter Canada.

Aliceand Arthur John took part in an arranged marriage ceremony in the Dena tradition in 1932, which was followed by a ceremony in anAnglican Church in 1935. Later that year, while they were working on their trap line, a Roman Catholic priest blessed their union.

Depending on which year you use, they have been married for 77 or 80 years. Their anniversary is in October.

The faith-based marriage organization made the announcement based on nominations it received. The organization notes there could be other couples in Canada married longer, but that the Johns have been married longer than all others who were nominated as part ofits search.

Arthur,born in 1911,has been a furtrapper and prospector,while Alice,born in 1917,supplemented the family salary by selling her sewing works. Arthur also worked for the U.S. army as a guide. Hecarried mail between camps by dogsled during the construction of the Canol Road.

They had 11 children, four ofwhom are still living. They have 38 grandchildren.

Daughter Dorothy John said her parents are an inspiration.

"You know, he's been a good provider for us, and Mom taught us all the sewing and everything with the traditional lifestyle. I think they're perfect role models for our kids," she said.

The couple celebrated their marriage with a mass and reception on Sundayat the local school, wherethey were joined by many friends and family.