But Mrs Ruddenklau (nee Kingan) was never sure whether he was coming to see her, her brothers or to go pig hunting on the Kingan farm at Fuchsia Creek.
The couple, who celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in Oamaru today, were married by the Rev W. French at Columba Church on April 21, 1948.
The bridal party comprised Mrs Ruddenklau's two sisters, Doreen and Barbara, her brother Ian and Mr Ruddenklau's brother, Mac.
After a reception at the Star and Garter, the couple left on their honeymoon, stopping first near Takaro Park to remove the tins and old boots tied to the car.
Mrs Ruddenklau (81) still has her wedding dress, and Mr Ruddenklau (83) has the suit he wore on his wedding day.
The couple farmed at Five Forks, where they brought up three children - Laurie, Stan and Rose - before retiring to Oamaru in 1989.
Both agreed the years had gone quickly and they realised they had ‘‘an awful lot to be thankful for'', Mr Ruddenklau said.
They kept active - Mr Ruddenklau, a woodwork enthusiast, has just completed his 167th clock, while Mrs Ruddenklau knits blankets to be sent to Moldova.
