By Cllr Sarah Dickinson
Stonehaven residents, Clem and Sheena Stewart who married at Kings College Chapel at Aberdeen University on the 10th April 1965 celebrated their diamond anniversary and 60 years of marriage.
The couple first met when they were students at Aberdeen University in 1960 and, following graduation, both went into teaching. This was a profession which ran in both families with both Clem’s parents being teachers and Sheena’s father being a teacher as well. Clem initially taught Maths at Aberdeen Grammar whilst Sheena commuted down from Aberdeen to teach English here in Stonehaven at the Mackie Academy. In due course they moved to Dunoon where Clem taught at Dunoon Grammar School rising over time to become Depute Head Teacher. A further move followed in 1977 when Clem took up the post of Head Teacher of Lochgilphead High School. However, the North East ultimately beckoned them back and they moved to Stonehaven in 1986 when Clem returned to become the first Head Teacher of Portlethen Academy.
Clem and Sheena have three sons, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Their family has always been hugely important to them and they continue to be close, very much valuing the fact that all three sons have settled in the North East as well. Both have been active members of Fetteresso Church including being stalwarts in the choir over many years. Walking has been an activity they have enjoyed together as members of the local Ramblers Group. Clem has also led walking groups for the Stonehaven Probus and Fetteresso Church as well.
Deputy Lieutenant, Gordon Ritchie visited the couple on the morning of their anniversary to bring the good wishes of the Lord Lieutenant. It was an opportunity also to reminisce about the fact that Sheena had taught Mr Ritchie when he was a pupil at the Mackie Academy! In the afternoon, Councillor Sarah Dickinson brought the good wishes of the Provost and local councillors when she visited. It was a happy day but more was to come as the family gathered with them over the weekend to continue the celebrations.