MARY and John Youssef, of Caringbah, have just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
Both were born in Alexandria, Egypt, and met in 1954 through their families, who thought a little matchmaking wouldn't hurt.
At the time that Mary met John she was preparing to move to the US to live but changed her mind soon after and the two became engaged and married that year.
They had three children in Egypt — May, George and Rita.
Mary became a mother at home and John worked as a radio technician for Misr Airlines in Egypt and later became a marine engineer.
They decided to leave Egypt and arrived in Australia in March 1966.
They had twins, Christine and Therese, two years later, and settled in South Maroubra.
Mary had to learn English and John brought home a typewriter so Mary could learn the letters on it and words.
For most of her working life in Australia Mary was employed at the police headquarters in College Street, Sydney, working in data entry and administration.
John worked as an electronic engineer with various companies, and was known for his meticulous attention to detail and genuine care for his staff and colleagues.
The Youssefs retired to Caringbah almost 20 years ago, and as well as their children they have nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.