CHARLOTTE, N.C. _ Chuck and Jane Ellen noticed each other on an online dating service and, at first glance, they seemed like a good match.
He worked as a chauffeur. She was looking for a companion to drive her at night, to the theater and out to dinner. He's 6 feet 4; she's 6 feet. Both love animals.
They had something else in common with each other and with an increasing number of people who are turning to the Internet to find companionship: Chuck and Jane Ellen are both 72.
A generation ago, it was unusual for a 72-year-old to venture out to seek another companion after losing a spouse to death or divorce. Times have changed. And, with the Internet, older adults have found a place to meet.
So at 72, Chuck and Jane Ellen arranged to get together for coffee.
The day of the appointment, he got a job and asked to reschedule. She graciously postponed. Then the second date came, and he got another job and asked to reschedule again.
In the world of love, two strikes are enough for an out.
"I don't think you're ready for dating," she e-mailed. "But we can be friends. Nobody ever has too many friends."
Read more of this story at charlotteobserver.com\