William Daniels and Bonnie Bartlett reveal marriage struggles due to their parents
photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
William Daniels and Bonnie Bartlett have demonstrated that marriages can endure, boasting a beautiful love story that has spanned more than seven decades. However, their journey was not always a bed of roses.
In a joint interview with People magazine, the couple revealed that neither of their parents approved of their marriage. They recounted how their parents initially refused to attend their wedding but eventually agreed to be present. “Neither of our parents were approving of our marriage,” Bartlett, author of The Middle of the Rainbow, shared with the outlet.
They told the outlet that their parents “didn’t want to come, but then they said they would.” The Middle of the Rainbow author said, “Neither of our parents were approving of our marriage.” “Bill had left the church. My family wanted it to be an Episcopalian and I said, ‘No,'” she noted.
Bonnie went on to say, “I had preached a sermon when I was 18 at the church there called ‘You’re a Christian, So What?’ But I wrote our wedding thing and I sort of left God out of it.” She further added, “My minister, who I loved, he helped me with it. We were very close, my minister [and I]. I just didn’t believe in all of that stuff, but we were very close.”
William and Bonnie tied the knot on June 30, 1951, in Moline, Illinois. Despite the initial lack of support from their families, their commitment to each other remained steadfast. In 1961, the couple faced a heartbreaking tragedy when their son, William Jr., died just 24 hours after his birth. This loss was a profound challenge for the young couple to endure.
Later, William and Bonnie decided to adopt, welcoming two sons, Michael and Robert, into their family in 1964 and 1966, respectively. These additions brought new joy and purpose to their lives, helping to heal the pain of their earlier loss.
Over the years, William and Bonnie have built a life together that stands as a testament to enduring love and resilience. Despite the early disapproval of their parents and the personal tragedies they faced, they have remained united and supportive of each other through thick and thin.
Their story is a powerful reminder that true love can withstand external pressures and personal hardships. William Daniels and Bonnie Bartlett’s seven-decade-long marriage is a beacon of hope and inspiration, showing that with commitment and perseverance, a partnership can weather any storm.
Their enduring bond and shared experiences have made their love story one for the ages, a narrative of devotion that continues to inspire many. As they look back on their journey, their resilience and unwavering support for one another remain the defining elements of their remarkable union.
