08/08/2025
LANGLANDS BECOME PART OF AN ELITE AMERICAN GROUP
Celebrating 75th Wedding Anniversary
Walter and Adeline Langland of Decorah celebrated a rare and remarkable milestone—75 years of marriage. In an age when couples are waiting to marry or choosing not to marry at all, Walter and Adeline Langland defy the trends and join an elite group of just over 1,000 American couples to reach the golden jubilee of anniversaries.
The couple marked their platinum anniversary at Aase Haugen Senior Services, where staff organized a heartfelt celebration, complete with the Langlands’ favorite meal, music, a life-spanning slideshow, and cake for all. “As they celebrate 75 years of love and life together, Walter and Adeline stand as an inspiring example of what it means to build a lasting partnership rooted in faith, family, and service,” says Sam Boeke, Aase Haugen executive director.
Walter and Adeline (Lovstuen) Langland were married at Glenwood Lutheran Church on August 6, 1950. “It was such a nice day,” commented Adeline. “We were with family and friends, and it was lovely.” The newlyweds honeymooned in northern Minnesota and Canada before settling into life on Valley View Dairy Farm, a family homestead dating back to 1886. The farm earned the Iowa Soil Conservation Award in 1978 and will become a Heritage Farm in 2027.
They raised two children, Steven Paul and Karen Louise, while balancing careers in teaching, farming, and public service. Both Luther College graduates, Walter and Adeline began their careers as teachers in Ridgeway. Adeline later worked as a bank secretary, while Walter dedicated over 35 years to public service, including roles on the Decorah School Board, Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors, the Iowa House of Representatives, and more. He is also a veteran of both WWII and the Korean War.
Reflecting on their life, Walter said, “Our lives have been very full with our children and friends.” The couple spent many years traveling and their plans always included and extra bedroom in their timeshares to bring friends. “It’s important to do things together, and we did,” says Walter. “We built so many great connections and we’re thankful for that.”
When asked the secret to growing old together, Walter and Adeline smiled and said, “Staying healthy, always being kind and patient to each other, and never forgetting the ‘I love yous’ and good night kisses.”
