(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Palmer House rolled out the red carpet Tuesday afternoon to welcome back the Nelsons.
Vern and Donna met in Waterloo, Iowa and got married in 1953.
Seventy years, three children, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren later, they returned to the hotel where they honeymooned to celebrate their platinum anniversary.
"She's easy to love," said Vern.
"The biggest thing was that my parents liked him and his parents liked me, so, it made a big difference," added Donna.
The Nelsons were treated to a private lunch and romantic dance while being serenaded by the Sam Fazio Trio.
The cherry on top? A hot fudge sundae bar just like the one they shared all those years ago.
"It's a lot of fun," said Donna. "We've really enjoyed it."
The couple, now in their late-80s, spent the majority of their marriage as business partners overseeing building management in Waterloo.
Their key to a long and happy marriage?
"Never go to bed angry or upset," said Donna.
Their son, Vernor Nelson Jr., says Donna and Vern are a shining example of a successful marriage.
"They're always together, never apart," he said. "They're best friends."
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