When Rita Brennan married her husband Ray, he put her and their wedding party on a boat and sent them down the St. Lawrence River to Boldt Castle; a magnificent home built as a tribute to the owner’s beloved wife.

It was a romantic gesture by Ray that has stayed with Rita for 14 years.

“It was kind of a novelty wedding,” she admits about the boat ride and wedding ceremony conducted earlier that day by Ray’s ordained nephew.

Sitting in her room located down the hall from Ray at Carveth Care Centre, Rita, 84, is always thinking of the man who chartered the boat for her on their wedding day.

“Our love is still strong,” says the mother of four.

Asked about the secret of their marital success, Rita notes with a laugh, “There is a lot of patience involved. He’s a good fella.”

Born and raised in Gananoque, the couple celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary on June 2.

Father of three girls, Ray, 97, spent his post-war years on the water running Ray’s Outboard Marine in Gananoque. It is now operated by his nephew as Brennan Marine.

Finding her own way to water, Rita and her sons are the founders of Gan-U-Brew which has been in business for more than 20 years.

Recent additions to the Carveth family, Rita and Ray are settling into their new home and routine.

“It’s good to be together, it really is,” Rita says about their life at Carveth.

“We’re new at this, but it’s great here. The staff is helpful and everyone pitches-in when necessary.”

Editor’s Note: In loving memory of Ray Brennan who passed away June 24, 2015.