Kids & Family
Interracial Odenton Couple Of 64 Years Has Valentine's Day Advice
Interracial marriage was illegal when this Maryland couple fell in love, so they tied the knot in Japan.
![Ronald and Yoshiko Roache, an Odenton couple of 64 years, have some tips for a healthy marriage.](https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/24287450/20210212/100221/styles/patch_image/public/roaches-1952___12220155480.jpg)
ODENTON, MD — Ronald Roache served in the U.S. Army during the 1950s. While stationed in Japan, Roache met the love of his life, named Yoshiko.
There was just one obstacle. He was Black, and she was Asian.
Interracial marriage wasn't completely legalized in the United States until 1967. If they wanted to get married, they would have to get creative.
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The couple tied the knot in Japan before settling down in Washington, D.C. The lovebirds now live at the Arbor Terrace Waugh Chapel, an assisted living facility in Gambrills.
After 64 years of marriage, the Roaches stay strong by following these three rules:
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- Compromise is everything
- Always be there for each other
- Tackle everything as partners
![](https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/24287450/20210212/095800/styles/raw/public/processed_images/Roaches%20Now.jpg)
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