“They went to prom in the 1940s—then reunited 70 years later” 💌👴👵 Bill and Joanne’s love story was put on pause for decades… until one online search brought it back to life. Their reunion is proof that some hearts never let go. See the full story and touching reunion photos in the article below 👇
In a story that feels like it was pulled straight from a romance novel, 90-year-old Bill Hassinger and 92-year-old Joanne Blakkan have proven that true love really can stand the test of time—even seven decades of it.
Their journey began back in the 1940s in Muskegon, Michigan, where they met as teenagers riding the same school bus. Bill even took Joanne to her senior prom. But life, as it often does, had other plans. She left for college at Michigan State, and he stayed behind, finishing high school and eventually serving in the Korean War. They drifted apart, each going on to build separate lives, marry, raise families, and grow old.
But love wasn’t done with them yet.
In 2022, a twist of fate—and a little help from the internet—reunited them. Joanne, curious about her old classmates, stumbled across Bill’s name during an online search with her daughter. She learned that Bill had recently lost his wife. Feeling a tug from the past, she decided to reach out.
Bill didn’t hesitate. He traveled to North Muskegon for a lunch date that would change everything.
“We just picked up where we left off,” Joanne said. “If anything, the feelings are deeper now than they ever were.”
Since reconnecting, the two have become inseparable, spending every weekend together. Their families couldn’t be happier—between them, they share nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all of whom are overjoyed to witness such a beautiful second chance at love.
Bill summed it up best: “Both sides of the family are thrilled, which makes it even more special.”
Their story is a heartwarming reminder that it’s never too late for love, and sometimes the people meant for us circle back—no matter how many years have passed.
Have you ever reconnected with someone from your past? Share your story in the comments—we’d love to hear it!
