Humour and sports keeps family together

EVERLASTING: Mr and Mrs Wickes celebrate 60 years being married with their children. PHOTO: RENEE CLAYTON

"We have only been alone for nine months and two days before our first was born. Family, humour, sport and communication is key."

These were the words family man David Wickes said at his 60th wedding anniversary.

He and wife Colleen Wickes celebrated their anniversary last week at the Coachman Hotel, joined by their six children, extended family and friends.

"Palmerston North has been a great place to live and raise children," Mr Wickes said. "Together we have had a huge involvement in the sporting community."

The family has had a big history of sporting achievements. Several members have played and coached Kia Toa rugby teams and represented the Manawatu and New Zealand in other sports.

Son Craig Wickes was the youngest All Black in the 1980s and his sister Colette has played rugby, hockey and cricket. The Rugby Museum also houses information about the two and their sporting achievements.

Craig was also a sprinter and his son Frazer has followed in his footsteps, now training for the Rio Olympic Games.

"Everyone has been into their sports," he said.

"It is a great sporting city and mum and dad were always into coaching and improving our skills."

Sport is such a prominent thing for the family that Mr Wickes even played a game of rugby on the morning of his wedding.

The couple have been childhood sweethearts from the age of 18 and 19.

"Being married 60 years is a big thing these days," Mr Wickes said.

"Our sense of humour and our wonderful children have kept us together."