Husband and wife of 62 years die within 4 hours of each other

They were married for 62 years, and faced everything — even death — together.

Don and Maxine Simpson of Bakersfield, California, met at a bowling alley, and had an instant connection; after marrying, they raised two sons and enjoyed traveling around the world. Two weeks ago, Don was taken to the hospital after breaking his hip, but as his condition worsened, his family decided to bring him home to be with Maxine, who had been battling cancer for years.

During the last afternoon they spent together, Don and Maxine smiled and held hands. Maxine passed away first, and then four hours later, Don died. "I knew in my heart this is what's supposed to happen," granddaughter Melissa Sloan told KERO-TV. "Grandma and Grandpa are supposed to be together and Grandma and Grandpa are going to die together."

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Sloan believes her grandparents had a special bond that was "absolutely beautiful," and an inspiration to all married couples. "It's a true love story," she said.