A California couple who were married nearly 75 years died less than a day apart, fulfilling their promise to pass away peacefully pass in each other’s arms.

Jeanette and Alexander Toczko, of San Diego, became inseparable after first meeting when they were eight years old, their children said.

The lovebirds were both born in 1919 to Polish immigrants, and wed in 1940.

Daughter Aimee Toczko-Cushman told KGTV: “Their hearts beat as one from as long as I can remember.

“He died in her arms, which is exactly what he wanted.

“She hugged him and she said, ‘See this is what you wanted.

“‘You died in my arms and I love you. I love you, wait for me, I’ll be there soon.’”

Mr Toczko, 95, served in the US Navy in World War II, before pursuing a career in advertising in New York City during the 1950s and 1960s.

According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, the couple moved to the West Coast in the early 1970s.

Mr Toczko set up his own advertising and fashion photography firm, and his wife was chief stylist.

An avid golf player, his health deteriorated after he broke his hip in a recent fall.

He and Mrs Toczko, 96, slept side by side at their hospice.

Their 75th wedding anniversary was on 29 June, but they celebrated it a few days early at the care home, surrounded by family.

He died first on 17 June.

Mrs Toczko passed away less than 24 hours later, according to their obituary.

“They both entered the pearly gates holding hands,” said Richard Toczko, the couple’s son.

They were buried Monday at Miramar National Cemetery.