Michael “Mike” and Rose Stegall reached their golden wedding anniversary on Oct. 22, 2026. They were married Oct. 22, 1976, at a church in Russia, Ohio, according to a My County Link feature published the same day as their anniversary.
Mike, a former Darke County commissioner, told the outlet that he would wed Rose again without hesitation. The couple met through Mike’s sister-in-law, who worked with Rose at Wayne Hospital in Greenville; the facility is now known as Wayne HealthCare.
Mike described a marriage in which each spouse allows the other room for separate interests while they often pursue activities together. He credited steady jobs and early saving for making travel possible. Their trips have included destinations across the United States, Caribbean islands and overseas locations, with London, Scotland and Ireland among their favorites.
Mike said he golfs as often as he can, while Rose prefers time at home. He reported that arthritis resulted in replacements of both knees, both shoulders and one hip for him, and Rose has had one hip replaced.
Mike said the couple remains close with friends from their early married years and stays active. He advised younger couples to choose someone with whom they enjoy building a shared life, and he said he considers the pair fortunate.