Centenarians celebrated at St. Clara’s Rehab and Senior Care

[August 16, 2023]   During the week of the Logan County Fair, there were other things going on in our community, including a very special event at St. Clara’s Rehab and Senior Care.

On Thursday, August 3rd there was an afternoon party to celebrate six very special ladies who reside at the long-term care facility.

Left to Right: Anna L. Goeken, Buenetta Depuy, Lois Leesman, Verna Mason, Evelyn Fulkerson and Mary Camp.

All had reached at least their 100th birthday and were gathered together with family and friends to celebrate at St. Clara's Manor in Lincoln.

Anna Goeken said that she had been thinking that she was 103, but it turns out, she is only 101. Asked how that had made her feel. She gave LDN a sly look and responded, "Younger!"

Danny Row shared that his mother Evelyn Fulkerson was 101 years and eight months old. He pointed out that his father had passed away at the age of 52, so now, his mom is nearly twice as old as his father lived to be.

Verna Mason celebrated her 105th birthday on the day of the party so she was the “true birthday girl” in the bunch. She had several special guests for the party including several of her family members. She also gracefully wore the special Birthday Girl crown for the day.

Buenetta Depuy enjoyed sharing the moment with her daughter Melanie Anderson.

Lois Leesman and Mary Camp were also among the celebrants and enjoyed sharing the time with friends and family.

Even recruiters for the US Navy showed up. It was a wonderful surprise like you see in the movies when a serviceman walks in the room and the person they came to see can hardly believe it's their loved one standing in front of them.

Several staff members were on hand to serve cupcakes, punch and ice cream. The room was full of laughter and an abundance of smiles...younger and older alike making memories for a lifetime.

[Karen Castelein]