After being married for 19 years, President of Ottawa University, Kevin Eichner, and his wife Marylin are still keeping their spark alive by working and playing together.
The Eichners dated for approximately four years before they became engaged. The Eichners, who met at work with Gala for Young President’s Organization in St. Louis, Mo., had their first date at the Botanical Gardens. Marylin said she was intrigued with Kevin’s interviewing techniques.
A highlight that makes the Eichners’ relationship successful was their ability to merge their families into one. Both Marilyn and Kevin have children from previous marriages, and the ability for Marilyn’s sons Andrew and Kyle, and Kevin’s son Adam to join together as a unit, has made their family very strong.
How did he pop the question? On Christmas Eve in 1994 Kevin had his son Adam give Marylin a gift, little did she know it was her engagement ring. Adam asked Marylin if she would marry his dad and, of course, she said yes. Adam was the best man at their wedding and her two sons walked her down the aisle.
Kevin jokingly, said he knew she was the one when she threatened to stop dating him if he didn’t marry her.
The Eichners’ highlights throughout their marriage include building a business together, watching their three sons grow into accomplished young men as they successfully developed their families and careers, working at Ottawa University together and all the fun they have while travelling the world and engaging in interesting communities and work.
The Eichers say to maintain a healthy marriage, they continue to have a growing appreciation for each other, their time together and mutual respect. They think it is great to be lovers and best friends at the same time.
According to the Eichners, having your best friend to share ideas and listen when you are struggling, never being alone or afraid because he or she has your back, and having someone to snuggle with and laugh with you, but not at you, are the best parts of being married.
Everybody has challenges when it comes to marriage. A challenge for the Eichners is to be patient and remember that we do not all think alike and sometimes you need your own space.
When asked to give advice for college students and marriage, the Eichners recommended taking your time and not being in a hurry. Also, do not confuse physical attraction with true love.