Tucson Couple Dies Of Coronavirus 8 Days Apart

TUCSON, AZ — Gwen and Mike Elbert had a love story for the ages until the coronavirus tore them apart.

BJ Madsen, the couple's niece, told ABC 15 News that the couple had been married for over 53 years before they died just eight days apart from the virus.

"They were married 53 years. They met, obviously, more than 53 years ago. He was in the military at the time and she went to visit him. They got married in Europe, at that time, on the Fourth of July," Madsen said, according to the outlet.

Both Gwen and Mike were over the age of 75 and just weeks away from getting vaccinated, a fact their niece finds heartbreaking.

The couple tested positive for the coronavirus after the holidays, with Gwen being admitted to the hospital on New Year's Day.

“I was able to be with her and hold her hand as they turned off the ventilator," Madsen said. "We did a Zoom call with my family, which was lovely. Everybody got to sing and tell fun stories and happy stories."

Mike followed his wife just eight days later.

Madsen said the couple had been taking every precaution, including wearing masks and social distancing from others. They hosted their small holiday gathering outside.

“I think there are still so many people out there that think that this isn't real and it's real. It's here, it's right here in Tucson,” said Madsen.

Read more on ABC 15 News.