While we’ve all heard about some Hollywood marriages that barely last 46 hours, Malibu’s Helma and Juergen Cords have been happily married for 46 years. Although he didn’t credit a sense of humor for the longevity of their relationship, Juergen Cords definitely sees humor in it.
At first referring to his wife Helma as his “sergeant,” Juergen clearly loves the woman he’s shared his life with for nearly half a century. Both originally from Germany, Helma and Juergen emigrated to the United States separately in 1964.
Again, with a sense of humor, Juergen described to The Malibu Times how he met his future wife Helma at a dance.
“She was tall and I’m pretty tall, too, and I don’t like to dance with little girls,” Juergen said. “She was friendly and the kind of girl I was looking for, actually.” The two wed three years later and have made Malibu their home ever since. In fact, while describing their home in the Malibu Hills, Juergen said he signed the papers to buy it just an hour after seeing it for the first time.
Now 79, Juergen said the secret to a lasting marriage is, “You should have the same interests and you shouldn’t argue too much.
“You have to understand each other and don’t be selfish,” he continued. “Always know that your partner is there too and may have other ideas, but you have to combine these things.”
Helma, 78 said, “I found the partner for life. I love him dearly.”
She also proudly mentioned that Juergen is an active Malibu CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) member. The couple also stays active at the Malibu Senior Center and enjoys traveling the country in their motor home.
