It was at a Boy Scout banquet, the Silver Beaver Awards for President Ford, to be exact. The year was 1977.
She was a Police Explorer in Van Nuys, and he was an Eagle Scout. The two were both presenting awards at the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City. “It was love at first sight for me,” states a smiling Gary. Robin’s side of the story is a bit different. “My two best girlfriends were explorers as well, and we all thought this one guy was cute so we would take turns going out on the stage when he would present…but every time I went on stage, Gary would pop right in, instead!”
It didn’t take too long for Robin to fall in love with Gary. Shortly after, they went bowling and something clicked. “There was just something special between us, and after we went to the beach, he kissed me, and that was it.”
The two dated for five years and wed on February 26, 1983 amongst family and friends in Sherman Oaks. Together, they have three sons, Richard (29), Jesse (26) and Cody (20) and one grandchild. Robin works for a property management company in the SCV and Gary owns his advertising and photography business. They are very active in the community, serving on several boards for non-profit organizations and attending events whether it is for work or for personal reasons. “Robin worked for the SCV Chamber of Commerce, often running their golf tournaments and business expos, and shortly thereafter got involved with the Soroptimist organization. For me, it was a natural evolution. I’ve always helped a lot of non profit organizations at their events with photography and it was real important for me, well for us, to be a part of the giving back. Their missions are strong and we are very community oriented…it’s our mantra, to give back to the community and be involved.”
Some 32 years later and the two are still happily in love, and after spending an afternoon with them, there’s no doubt why. Not only do they work together, but they laugh together and enjoy life together…as husband and wife and as best friends. “I think because we had a strong friendship first, we remain good friends and partners and have each other’s backs,” states Robin. Gary adds, “There are no expectations, we are who we are, and we relax, and trust that we’ll always be there for each other.”