Matter of Marriage of Lemke

The husband appeals from those provisions of a decree of dissolution awarding to the wife $70 per month permanent spousal support and a judgment of $10,500. We granted review to consider the appropriateness of such an award where the dissolution is preceded by a long period of separation.

The parties were married in 1950, had seven children and separated in 1958, dividing their scant property between them. The wife raised the children, supporting herself and the family with public assistance, employment for a minimum wage and child support payments. The husband has paid support as ordered in…