It was a very special day for one resident of Rosewood Estates Retirement Home in Cobourg on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
Joseph Bleithofer celebrated his 102 birthday with family and friends and even had a special drive-by parade at the front entrance of the retirement home.
Among the well wishers in the parade were members of the Cobourg Police, Northumberland County Paramedics, Cramahe Township Fire Department and Cobourg Fire Department.
When asked what it feels like to be celebrating his 102nd birthday, Bleithofer simply said, “old, very old” to laughter from those around him.
For the key to longevity, he says to take one day at a time, and, “take things as they come along.”
For all of what he’s witnessed in earth’s history including his service in the US military in World War II, Bleithofer said it’s hard to chose there has been so many, but one of the biggest was Neil Armstrong landing on the moon.
Melissa Davey who is the Activity Coordinator at Rosewood Estates said Bleithofer is an amazing person.
“He’s still going strong at 102 and is always happy.”
“Very high spirits and it’s nice to see.”
For living a life as long as he’s had, Bleithofer said the world isn’t going in a good direction and has some advice for people.
“Be kind to one another and look after one another.”