Mother's birthdays, mother's day, Easter, all occasions to give something to mother were remembered and strictly observed. There was always a gift for dear mother. Forgetting birthdays and anniversaries with his wife were not a big deal. A forgotten anniversary is a reoccurring phenomenon.
Your mem cares about being praised by damsels in distress but feels no need to help his partner, he married a strong partner for that reason. She won't ever need help.