Caledonia couple separated by illness reunited for a date

CALEDONIA, Mich. — Pat and Tom VanTol enjoyed their regular orders from Culver’s over lunch on Wednesday.

For Pat, it’s the kids’ chicken tenders meal with mashed potatoes and gravy. Tom prefers the mushroom and swiss burger.

But while their orders were ordinary, their meal together was extraordinary.

Due to their different care needs and travel difficulties, they had been separated since April, unable to see each other in person.

Tom, 74, has Alzheimer’s and dementia, and is receiving end-of-life care from Emmanuel Hospice. Pat suffered a stroke four years ago that affected the left side of her body.

Tom’s wish to his care team was to see his wife for one final date. The pair have been married for almost 42 years.

“He's such a lovely man,” said Pat. “I love him dearly. I miss him.”