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Couple married 72 years dies holding hands

True, long lasting love is hard to come by these days. Which is what makes a story like one so touching.

Gordon and Norma Yeager were the definition of soul mates. Having been married for 72 years, last Wednesday after a car accident, the lovers passed away within an hour of each other, holding hands as they crossed over.

The couple from Iowa were married the day Norma graduated high school in 1939. They are survived by their two children, Donna and Dennis, 14 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Gordon is remembered as a sociable, fun loving party animal, while mum Norma was quieter, organised and considered a perfectionist. The couple rarely spent any time apart and according to their children 'were committed to each other for life'.

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When the couple lay in hospital together holding hands after their accident, Gordon stopped breathing. But the heart monitor was still going strong because of Norma's heartbeat.

'Her heart was beating through him and picking it up,' Dennis said.

At their funeral on Tuesday, Norma, 90 and Gordon, 94, held hands while sharing the same casket. After they are cremated, their ashes will be mixed together, according to their family.

Watch their touching story below, (and get some tissues ready):

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