Michael Martin, 69, briefly appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday after he was charged over the two 1980s sex attacks.
He is facing two counts of attempted aggravated rape, aggravated burglary, aggravated indecent assault, rape, burglary and common assault.
It's alleged Martin broke into Jessie Grace Lauder's Newport home in Melbourne's southeast on two separate occasions in September 1981 and July 1983.
He is accused of confronting the elderly woman with a knife while she was either in bed or getting ready to go to sleep, before raping her.
The Hoppers Crossing man remained silent as Magistrate Leon Fluxman remanded him in custody.
He is expected to make an application for bail on Tuesday.
His lawyer told the court it was Martin's first time in custody and the 69-year-old was in remission for cancer but was receiving treatment for a tumour on his neck.
He was also taking medication for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and prostate issues, the lawyer said.
Mrs Lauder died in 1993 but her loved ones issued an emotional plea for information on January 14.
"Somebody has gone into the sanctuary of her own home not once, but twice, where she should be the most protected that you should ever feel," her grandson Malcolm Lauder told reporters.
Detective Inspector Mark Burnett thanked the media and public for providing vital information. (Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS)
Earlier on Friday, sexual crime squad detectives thanked media and the public for providing vital information leading to the arrest.
"Though Jessie is sadly no longer with us, this is a momentous day for her family and in particular, her grandson, Malcolm, who have fought incredibly long and hard for justice for almost 44 years for their beloved Jessie," Detective Inspector Mark Burnett said.
"This has been a complex, protracted and at times, difficult investigation by members of the Sexual Crime Squad – many of whom have moved to different units over the years – and their determination and perseverance is to be commended."
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028
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