Henry Winkler, best known for his role as Arthur Fonzarelli in “Happy Days,” has a personal story that is as captivating as his television career. His enduring marriage to Stacey Winkler is a testament to their lasting love and commitment, which has flourished over more than four decades.
The Serendipitous Meeting
Henry and Stacey’s journey together began in an unlikely setting—a clothing store where Stacey worked as a public relations specialist. Henry, in search of a sport coat, encountered Stacey, and their meeting marked the beginning of a profound relationship. Henry recalls their first encounter vividly: “She was wearing purple parachute pants, and she had red hair. Without her saying a word, I thought, ‘Woah, beautiful woman standing in front of me.’ I came back to the store the next week, and she was there. And within 10 minutes, I learned how strong she is.”
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Navigating Fame and Challenges
Their relationship progressed quickly, with Stacey and her young son moving in with Henry. They married, but their life together was not without its trials. Henry’s rising fame attracted considerable female attention, presenting challenges that Stacey navigated with grace. Despite being physically jostled by admirers, Stacey maintained her composure and support. She humorously recalls one incident, “One time I said, ‘You’ve just completely ruined my stockings.’ And this woman said, ‘But I love Fonzie!’”
Together, Henry and Stacey built a family, welcoming two daughters, Zoey and Max. Both Henry and Stacey balanced their careers with family life, and Max eventually followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a successful writer, director, and producer.
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Facing Health Battles
The couple’s journey took a somber turn when Stacey was diagnosed with breast cancer in the late 1990s. They confronted this challenge with unwavering support for one another. Although Stacey went through remission, she faced a recurrence in 2007 and underwent a double mastectomy. Henry, deeply moved by her strength, became actively involved in breast cancer awareness efforts, participating in fundraising events like the “In The Pink of Health” Luncheon.
A Lasting Love
Henry and Stacey’s marriage is characterized by their mutual respect and unwavering support. They recognize that a successful marriage requires effort but believe that love is its core. Henry’s surprise on the James Corden show, where he was presented with a wedding photo, underscored his continued admiration for Stacey, noting that she remains as stunning as ever. Stacey also expresses her affection through social media, demonstrating that their love endures despite the challenges of 44 years of marriage.
Cherishing Grandparenthood
Now, Henry and Stacey enjoy the pleasures of grandparenthood. Henry, who lacked close relationships with his own grandparents due to his family’s history during the Holocaust, cherishes his role as a grandfather. He shared a touching moment with his grandson, who recognized him from “Happy Days,” saying, “My wife and I babysat our four-year-old grandson, who is allowed to watch one show before he goes to bed. He has Happy Days on his DVR. He turned to me, he said, ‘That’s you. Your hair was different. You were skinnier then.’” To his grandchildren, Henry is simply their beloved “Papa,” and he finds great joy in their bond.
A Testament to Enduring Love
Henry and Stacey Winkler’s story is a powerful example of enduring love and commitment. Their ability to face life’s challenges together, from navigating fame to overcoming health battles, illustrates that true love can indeed withstand the test of time. Their relationship serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength found in unwavering support and affection.
