Longos celebrate 70 years of marriage

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Elizabeth and Peter J. Longo of West Orange celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary today, Sept. 15, with their children, Patricia Bolles, Diana Longo, Peter M. Longo and his wife, Lisa Olesky.

Elizabeth “Betty,” nee Raycheck, was born in Uniontown, Pa. Her widowed mother raised seven children on a small farm during the Great Depression. At age 19, Betty moved to New Jersey during World War II as a worker in the defense industry. One year later, she met Pete Longo, a handsome staff sergeant, recently released from service. They wed in 1946 and purchased their home in West Orange in order to raise their family. Betty fulfilled her personal dream by earning a B.A. in psychology at Montclair State University after her children were grown.

“Pete the Electrician” Longo was employed by the Battery Division of Thomas Alva Edison before joining Essex County as a skilled professional in their facilities. After 22 years with Essex County, he retired. Peter then began a new career as a certified electrical inspector for the towns of West Orange, South Orange, East Orange and Montclair. At age 91, he retired from employment. His good health and active lifestyle have afforded him a number of retirements through the years.

Mr. and Mrs. Longo continue to live in West Orange. They remain active in local veteran and senior activities.

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