by Mike Sanchez

As Valentine’ s Day approaches, love is in the air— but true romance is about so much more than flowers and chocolates. It’ s about building a partnership rooted in trust, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to encouraging each other to be their most authentic selves. This month, we’ re celebrating two extraordinary local couples whose marriages exemplify what it means to truly thrive together. Through honest communication, humor, selflessness, and finding joy in everyday moments, they’ ve created bonds that inspire us all. Their stories are a masterclass in modern romance— and a testament to the enduring power of love.

John and Lee Blaettler: A Love That Stands the Test of Time

A Chance Meeting Leads to Something More

For five years, Barbara( Rizzi) Drewitz encouraged her daughter, Shirley( Lee), to stop by the office of their family CPA, John Blaettler. Barbara hoped an introduction might spark a career connection, offering Lee a chance to work closer to home. During that period, Lee’ s career in financial services had taken her across the globe, with stints in London, New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas. In February of 2000, Lee was a stockbroker in Carmel, CA. While in Gilroy for her cousin Kylie Simmon’ s birthday, Lee decided to take her mom’ s advice.

“ I was all gussied up when I walked into that meeting,” Lee recalls with a laugh.“ She thought she was going to hand me some business cards, and I’ d start sending her referrals,” John said.“ But I told her,‘ I need to know who you are, your investment philosophy, and why I should trust you with referrals.’”

Lee did make an impression, and a few days later, John called her— not to talk business, but to ask her on a date.“ I thought I was getting a referral,” Lee chuckles.

“ She was probably disappointed,” John teases.“ She expected a business call, and I was bracing for her to say‘ no’ to a date.” At the time, Lee’ s focus was on her career, and dating wasn’ t a priority. Yet, after some consideration, she agreed.

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