from: https://www.cnn.com/travel/ran-off-with-yacht-captain-1960s-chance-encounters/index.html Beverly Carriveau's life took an unexpected turn in June 1968 during a vacation in Mazatlan, Mexico, when she experienced an immediate and powerful connection with Bob Parsons. This "thunderbolt" feeling occurred the moment she saw him step out of a taxi, despite Beverly being on vacation with a friend and having a long-term boyfriend in Canada. Their initial encounter involved a significant exchange of glances and Beverly feeling like she had revealed something personal despite no words being spoken. Later, Bob sent Beverly and her friend a bottle of wine in the hotel restaurant, leading to their first conversation and a subsequent evening spent together at a beachside bar. Despite Beverly's reservations and her upbringing, she felt an undeniable connection with Bob. Over the following week in Mazatlan, Beverly and Bob continued to see each other, always in the company of Beverly's friend. Before leaving, Beverly gave Bob her contact information, and upon returning to Canada, she was delighted to find he had already called. This prompted Beverly to end her three-year relationship and, trusting her instincts, she flew to San Diego to meet Bob again. This whirlwind weekend confirmed their growing feelings for each other, leading Beverly to impulsively resign from her jobs and move to Mexico to be with Bob. Shortly after her arrival in Mazatlan, Bob proposed marriage. In a memorable and humorous radio call, they announced their engagement to Beverly's parents in Canada, who, despite initial reservations, arranged for a church wedding in Vancouver. Following their wedding, Beverly and Bob returned to Mexico and eventually settled in Cabo San Lucas. Beverly embraced life alongside Bob, learning Spanish and later working as a cook on the yachts he managed. Their life was adventurous, sometimes glamorous, and they developed a deep bond, weathering challenges like hurricanes together. After a few years in Mexico, they moved to San Diego, where Beverly embarked on a successful career as a boat agent, and Bob became a yacht broker. They established a thriving professional partnership, leveraging their individual skills and enjoying a fulfilling life together, which included extensive travel. Beverly and Bob shared 52 years of marriage built on love, trust, and mutual support. Beverly cherished their life together and felt incredibly fortunate to have met Bob and taken a chance on their connection. Even when Bob developed dementia in his later years, Beverly lovingly cared for him at home until his passing in early 2020. Reflecting on their remarkable journey, Beverly remains grateful for the "thunderbolt" moment in Mazatlan that led to a lifetime of happiness and a partnership that allowed her to grow and thrive in unexpected ways.
Mazatlán Centro, Mazatlán, SIN, México