15 th annual
Commemoration
2021 HONOREES Mary Alice
Euratee Draper
Anita Parker
Farideh Amirkhizi
Stanley Emerson
Dorothy Pennycot
Dorelle Berg
LaVonne Eyres
Anne Rigsby
Richard Betchley
Rosalind Faraday
Murray Schacht
Hazel Booher
John Gonge
Bruce Sooy
Marjorie Bors
Mildred Healy
Charlotte Stack
Irene Bruce
Violet Jones
Berenice Sullivan
Gaylon Caldwell
John Knebel
Juliette Thomas
CW Callaway
Caroline Low
Virginia Tillen
Gerta Carsch
Maria Luz Tobias Galang
Xanthia Warren
Earl Chinnock
Eleanor Marshall
Jack Weir
Serpio Cortes
Angelina Meredith
Janet Wilhart
Teodora Cruz
Theodore Mertz
Reta Wills
Elda Dehnbostel
Leendert Miener
Loretta Yost
Lois Dittmer
Tsuyako "Grace" Miyagishima
Leona Young
Robert "Bob" Dittmer
Virginia Noordyk
INTRO
TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES
04 | Message from the Board Special messages written by the Solano County Board of Supervisors members to the local Centenarians to celebrate their milestone
10 | Stroll Through Time A look back at the achievements that Solano County and the Nation as a whole were experiencing 100 years in the past
12 | Their Stories Personalized biographies, pictures, and life lessons. Read the stories from all of our centenarians. From military heroes to professors, and everything in between
55 | In Remembrance A moment to remember our past centenarians that we have lost this past year
56 | Together for a Lifetime Love can conquer all, including time itself. A number of our centenarians have shared this journey with their partners by their side to this celebration
57 | The Brave Men & Women The greatest generation fought the good fight when called upon. We salute the brave men & women of our armed forces.
58 | Credits The people behind-the-scenes to make this event possible
2
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
FEATURES
OUR THANKS This event would not have been possible if not for the support of our local assisted living facilities and families
O
EDITORS LETTER
ver the years, the human population and life expectancy have increased with a corresponding increase in the number of people who attain the age of 100. According to the United Nations, there are over 570,000 centenarians in the world currently. As of 2021, there are approximately 90,000 centenarians living in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In the last 15 years, the Solano County Board of Supervisors has honored more than 180 residents who have reached the triple-digit threshold in age.
lived an entire century and to share in their wisdom, joys, and life. These precious members of society have seen the tragedies of the Great Depression and World Wars, the advent of the talking picture, the golden age of the radio and the invention of television, innovation of air travel, all the way to the exploration of space and the digital revolution — all in one lifetime. Centenarians will always be with us at each point in history, and all the memories of the lives they’ve lived will continue to live on when passed down.
This year we pay tribute to 48 more Centenarians. We honor and celebrate those among us who have
-Jenalee Dawson
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES
Paradise Valley Fairfield Post Acute Rehab Center Cogir Vacaville Rockville Terrace The Lodge at Glen Cove Cornerstone Vacaville Pacifica Senior Living Vacaville
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
3
SECTION
MESSAGE FROM
THE BOARD
4
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
Greetings from
DISTRICT ONE Erin Hannigan SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 1
O
ne of my favorite times of the year is when the Solano County Board of Supervisor’s celebrates our centenarians. I am amazed and enlightened by the centenarian’s positive quotes and keys to longevity. We should celebrate our seniors and centenarians every day.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
5
Greetings from
DISTRICT TWO Monica brown SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 2
W
elcome to our Centenarians. I am so excited to see you here. You represent the greatest of the Greatest Generation. My children and I inherited a better world because of the work you did and the sacrifices you made. I always look forward to this event to celebrate you. Our greatest days are ahead because of the work of the Greatest Generation. Thank you!
6
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
Greetings from
DISTRICT THREE jim spering SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 3
I
t is truly an honor and pleasure each year to recognize those rare individuals in Solano who have reached the milestone of 100 years. The value you bring to our community is immeasurable.
Each of you has made lasting contributions to your families, the community, and your country, and we are truly grateful to you. God bless all centenarians in Solano County.
You represent values that we want to share and celebrate, such as commitment to family, the importance of family and love, and the secrets to longevity.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
7
Greetings from
DISTRICT FOUR john vasquez SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 4
N
ow into its 15th year, the Board of Supervisors have had the pleasure of celebrating annually those that have experienced more than we can imagine yet gave of themselves to ensure that those around them, and their communities, were better. Solano County’s centenarians include the Greatest Generation, Rosie the Riveters, war veterans, civic leaders, mothers
8
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
and fathers, grandparents and even great-grandparents. In 2007, I had the privilege of recognizing my first-grade teacher, Lena Yolo. Several years later, I was lucky enough to honor my second-grade teacher, Leona Mae Bonovich. Their lessons still resonate with me today. In the years since, I have come to believe this is the best event the Board has had the benefit of
participating in. These individuals have contributed so much and are truly the fabric of our society. They have unique perspectives and stories that need to be heard. To our centenarians, we pay tribute to you and express a deep sense of gratitude for all you have given us.
Greetings from
DISTRICT FIVE mitch mashburn SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 5
T
oday we gather to honor a unique group of our fellow citizens and mark an occurrence that happens only for a handful – the men and women who have lived to celebrate their 100th Birthday. These centenarians are animated history books and our ties to the past. They are mothers and fathers and grandmothers and grandfathers, great grandparents and, in some cases
great-great grandparents. They are a gift to our lives, offering perspective that our society needs today perhaps more than ever. The best way we can honor them is to listen to their stories, hear their opinions, recognizing that over ten decades, they have seen it all. These events are an important message to the seniors among us. They say that we recognize your value, that we appreciate you and that your
voices are important. Let us be a society that remains more committed to appreciating the important role that our seniors and our centenarians play in strengthening our communities and our families. We are grateful you’re able to join us today and appreciate the many contributions you’ve made in your lives, and take this opportunity to recognize you for it. CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
9
SECTION
STROLL THROUGH TIME The culturally, historically, and aesthetically milestones that defined America for decades to come
A
newly elected President of the United States, the start of an iconic film icon, and an unfortunate moment in American history; this is a look back at our national history for the year of 1921. Only two years into the prohibition, the nationwide ban on the manufacturing, transportation, and sale of alcoholic substances, and the black market was already starting to take shape for those who could not adhere to the new regulations. Gangsters such as Al Capone had sprung up seemingly overnight to fill the void in distribution and would spearhead the creation of speakeasy’s, secret businesses, and bars that catered to the underground need for alcohol that became infamous in the roaring
10
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
twenties. With his predecessor’s achievements fresh in the minds of American’s, Warren G Harding was sworn in as President and had to make a name for himself. While Harding created the Bureau of the Budget, an attempt to assist in the depression of 1920; however it was 1921 that would be revealed to be the spark of his legacy in politics, the teapot dome scandal. Comedy icons had existed
in Vaudeville performances for decades prior, but 1921 was the year that saw the creation of the first full-length comedy movie and the first movie to star Charlie Chaplin in “The Kid”. In previous films, comedies had been shown as shorts to accompany other movies but The Kid marked the start of the genre gaining attention and being preserved in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being culturally significant to film history.
Top: Aftermath of the Tusla Race Massacre
Left: Charlie Chaplin’s first feature film Center: Protest against Prohibition Right: Inaguration for President Warren G. Harding
There are few moments in modern American history that is as critically important but has also been left out of the history books as the Tusla Race Massacre. Racial inequality was nothing new in the 1920s, but the black community of Tusla had carved out their own thriving business district known as “Black Wall St” despite the large community of Ku Klux Klan in the area; all that needed was a spark to ignite the tensions. What began as a startled female elevator operator
quickly spun out of control through a false narrative written in the local Tulsa, Oklahoma newspaper that was painted the incident as a more nefarious act. The white community demanded justice outside of the legal systems, but their anger expanded from a single person to the entire black community and descended upon Black Wall St. The mob shot their way through the district, looted the stores, and burned the buildings to the ground. When the dust settled,
26 African American residents were dead, and many more were injured with their community lost. The year was full of eventful moments that would grow to be pieces of Americana such as the first instance of the World Series being broadcast on the radio, the creation of the White Castle burger chain, and the creation of Science Service, a magazine with the goal to keep the public informed about scientific development.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
11
SECTION
THEIR STORIES
W
hether you worked on a farm, were a homemaker, or fought the good fight, each and every one of us has a story to tell, it is just a matter of being ready to listen. For our 2021 Centenarians, we have the ability to hear the stories
12
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
from those who have lived for a century. There are war veterans who can still retell their war stories as if they just happened yesterday, stories of happenstance that led some to their future partners, while others were led to a thriving career.
Take a moment to learn their secret to longevity, their stories of love, tales to astonish, and their most memorable moments of a life well-lived. These are your Centenarians
JUNE 20, 1920
“
“
MARY ALICE
She enjoyed watching sports (she played softball as a young lady) and keeping up with news near and far
M
ary Alice was raised in the Santa Rosa and San Jose areas, moved to Benicia to live with her son, which brought her to Solano County. She married Bill Wilbert in 1940 and they were married for 57 years. She had five children, four boys and one girl, George, Winfield, Charlie, William and Marianna, 15 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.
Most memorable experience besides marrying bill and her 5 children. Mary has loved to see her children grow and have their own children.
Her career was raising 5 children.
Hobbies: rock hounding, gardening and jewelry making from finding the stones she and her husband Bill collected. She polished, cut, and set the stones. She loves the outdoors and camping. An avid reader enjoyed daily crossword puzzles, and thoroughly enjoyed playing cards with the family. Having come from a large family she enjoyed family gatherings.
Prior to her loss of sight and hearing it would have been visiting with her family although now she just loves having them there. She loves playing games with them.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
13
JANUARY 15, 1921
FARIDEH AMIRKHIZI
F
“
Farideh was an artist, not only could she draw, but she was also an expert seamstress, and
“
arideh Amirkhizi was born Jan 15, 1921, in Tabriz Iran. After graduating from High School, she enrolled in an all-female college and became a teacher. She was an elementary teacher and later vice-principal until she retired. She and her husband Cyrus Pakbaz moved to France to a little town near Lake Lemond for about 12 years. Cyrus then encountered some medical issues, and they moved to California in 1985 to be closer to their two sons and family.
Farideh’s secret to longevity is perhaps her love for tea
embroideries on dresses, belts, and even shoes were talked about wherever she went. Farideh enjoyed working outside taking care of the garden, she had a green thumb. She could tell everything about plants and trees. She enjoyed cooking and traveling whenever she could. Around 2011 she started to suffer from memory loss which gradually
14
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
got worse. In 2015 her husband passed, and she moved to Vacaville to a memory care facility. After a couple of years, she suffered from a hip injury impacting her mobility and is now residing at Fairfield Post-Acute. Farideh has 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. She loves animals, especially cats, cookies, and hot tea, which her son brings to her every week when he visits.
JUNE 1, 1920
In 1936, a ‘special event’ occurred; Dick met Marjie. He worked as a draftsman until January 1942, when he entered the AAF as an Aviation Cadet. After graduation and marriage to Marjorie in November 1942, Richard joined an outfit at Camp Kilmer preparing to ship out to North Africa.
“
Positive thinking is the key to a long, full life. Stay positive, and enjoy life
His duties were to be Engineering Officer & Test Pilot. The 37 ADG would assemble planes that would arrive crated, deck loaded, or ferried in. Each aircraft was flown to assure that it was combat ready.
“
R
ichard Betchleywas born in Brooklyn and raised in Long Island, NY, and Jamaica, Long Island.
RICHARD BETCHLEY
In 1945, Richard was hired by American Airlines as Chief of Flight Employment. By 1948 when the need for pilots and stewardesses tapered off, Richard moved on to setting up new operating bases for Colonial Airlines in Bermuda and Montreal. In 1952, he decided to get back into engineering and joined Research-Cottrell, the company that he would work with for the next 33 years. Richard has enjoyed his retirement hobbies: photography, watercolor, and oil painting. Richards and his wife Marge enjoyed 74 years of marriage before she passed. CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
15
NOVEMBER 3, 1914
HAZEL BOOHER
Hazel played the organ for the church and sang in the choir; she enjoys music, FaceTime with
“
16
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
her daughter, needlepoint, and exercise by walking and nustep bike Her secret to longevity is to “Lead a good Christian life, “exercise to keep your blood moving”, a good diet and a healthy ancestor background.
You do what you can and how you can and when you can
“
H
azel Booher was born in Doran, Minnesota. She was a military wife and homemaker for her 2 children Dr. Jim Booher, and Geri Horsma. She has been known for her great sense of humor.
NOVEMBER 28, 1917
“
“
MARJORIE BORS
Always being active; keep mind busy with bridge and gardening; good kids and husband
Marjorie and her family lived in the same home since 1960 and enjoyed cooking, cleaning and gardening.
The family traveled all across the U.S. together in a trailer. Loves to garden – was President and current member of the Vacaville Garden Club.
Marjorie loves to garden and was a member and past president of the Vacaville Garden Club. She enjoys playing bridge and is a member of the 3 bridge clubs.
M
arjorie Bors was born in Napa, California and grew up in St. Helena and Rutherford. Married husband Bill at 20 years old and raised 3 children. Moved to Vacaville after the couple purchased a seed store in East Monte Vista Street where she was the bookkeeper. CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
17
OCTOBER 16, 1918
IRENE BRUCE
I
rene Bruce was born and raised in Bogue, Kansas. her husband Jean Luis Bruce was in the Air Force and was stationed at Travis AFB before retirement. Irene Bruce and Jean Bruce hasve one daughter Jeanne, and three grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.
“
“
Not getting upset over simple things. Healthy eating and no smoking
Irene’s career included 35 years in Civil Service. She survived the Spanish Flu pandemic, polio, breast, and skin cancer, as well as a broken left pelvis and broken right hip. She likes to stay current on events by reading the daily paper and watching the news. She enjoyed yodeling as a child. Irene independently drove herself until age 99. Some of her hobbies include gardening and walking. One of Irene’s most memorable experiences was watching her dad’s blacksmith business burn.
18
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
As an adult in 1991, she had her three grandchildren come live with her for five months. Currently, Irene enjoys walking and visiting grandchildren and great granddaughter.
SEPTEMBER 11, 1920
GAYLON CALDWELL and three plays (one of which won two prizes and was twice performed.) He acted with the Mendocino Theater Company. He currently enjoys music reading and listen to books on tapes and is trying to read all the books on his list.
He married his late wife Vickie, and they had 4 children Thomas, Camden, Melissa and Kim, adding 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. His military service in the US Air Force included learning to fly in a “Wild War Training Service”. Then turned to a career diplomat
“
“
G
aylon Caldwell was born in Hyrum Utah, and raised in Brigham Utah, is a graduate of Utah State University of Nebraska and his Ph.D. is from Sandford University.
Wrote “Rocks Over Red Bridge: The Autobiography of Gaylon L. Caldwell”
in the US Foreign Service, Gaylon especially enjoyed living in Guatemala. Gaylon has also been a professor of political science and a college dean. His interests include writing, reading, sailing, and interacting with people. He has written several unpublished novels in manuscript
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
19
AUGUST 12, 1920
CW CALLAWAY
“
“
He has written his memoirs and a history of the Mien church in English
C
W Callaway was born Aug. 12, 1920 in Perryton, Texas and was the 4th of 7 children. His only sister, 4 brothers, wife, 2 granddaughters, and 1 great granddaughter are all deceased. He met Lois Nadine Elkerton in Phillips Univ. Bible College. They shared a similar passion for mission service and married in Enid, Oklahoma on May 28, 1942. He earned Bachelor’s degrees from Phillips and Cincinnati Bible Seminary. He did graduate studies at Indiana U., attended Summer Institute of Linguistics, Norman, OK and Missionary School of Medicine, London, England. During his undergraduate studies he ministered at Christian Churches in Cache & Glencoe, OK and Syria & Bethel churches, Orleans, IN. In 1948 CW & Lois spent 4 months in Rangoon. Burma (Myanmar) seeking permission to serve among the Rawang people
20
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
of extreme northern Burma. Failing in that, they moved on to Kunming, China. The communist takeover forced them to leave there late in 1949. They then pioneered an outreach among the Mien Mountain tribe in Northern Thailand and served there for 35 years. From 1985 onward to the present he has served among Mien immigrants to the U.S. A number of other missionaries have since 1950 joined in the outreach to the
Mien so that there are currently nearly 30,000 Mien Christians. These converts are in China, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, France, England, Canada and U.S.A. He served for many years in Mien family and youth camps. He aided in the establishing of the Mien Christian Radio ministry and worked with Mien in the audio recording of the Mien Bible as well as in many other projects.
Lois died in an automobile accident on Sept. 5, 1996. One son-in-law, two granddaughters, and one great granddaughter are also deceased. Still living are his five children: James Lelan Callaway, Jon Mark Callaway , Joyce E. Nicholson, Jennifer Ley Goddard, & Joel David Callaway, as well as a Thai foster daughter: Nola (Warunya) Potikom. Also still living are 14 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.
OCTOBER 6, 1921
“
“
GERTA "RUTH" CARSCH
Ruth’s secret to longevity is pure luck, don’t drink and don’t do anything foolish
R
uth Carsch attended prep schools in Cambridge, England and in Switzerland.
She received a degree in cosmetology and graduated from the Institute of Fashion Design and Fine Arts in New York City. After late husband, Harry, Ruth enjoyed the overseas assignments in Japan and France, where she traveled with her late husband, Harry, but she particularly remembers her home in Alameda, CA as a wonderful place to live. Her hobbies include sewing, reading, and playing mah jongg.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
21
SEPTEMBER 8, 1921
EARL CHINNOCK
E
In retirement, he enjoys golfing and sport shooting with civic duty as Mayor of Rocklin. He is a member of the Order of Daedalians, the Military Officers Association, Quiet Birdmen, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and Experimental Aircraft Association.
“
After spending the first 40 years of his retirement in Rocklin, California. His wife, Vivian “Betty” (Mickelson) Chinnock, is now deceased but he enjoys frequent contact with his daughter, Carol; his sons Dennis, Jack, and Sam; and his nine grandchildren and seven 22
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
“
arl Chinnock was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and was attending University of Minnesota in Minneapolis when World War II broke out. He entered the Army Air Corps and, after pilot training, spent the war with the Ninth Air Force in Europe. Following the war, he accepted a regular commission and spent the rest of his 30-year service career in the Air Force in numerous locations and assignments around the world. Colonel Chinnock currently resides at Paradise Valley in Fairfield, CA.
His most precious memory through all his life is his wife, who he was married to for 69 years
great grandchildren. Earl has a B.A. from University of Maryland in political science and an M.A. from George Washington University in international relations. His military education included Air Tactical School, Command and Staff College, Air War College, and the Inter-American Defense College. Colonel Chinnock was on the cutting edge of military aviation throughout his career, and he is a lifetime member of the F-86 Association, the Strategic Air Command B-47 Association, and the Air Force Navigator Observer Association.
His secret to longevity is to “Live well!”
FEBRUARY 2, 1920
SERPIO "PAPU" CORTES
S
erpio Cortes was born in El Varal, Michoacán, Mexico. Work brought him to Solano County. He needed to feed and support his family. His sons all eventually ended up living in Fairfield and so did he.
“
“
According to Papú, his secret to reaching 100 years old is eating a lot of beans and drinking his Coca-Colas
He married Rosa Cortés Manzo (95 years young and they have been married 79 years and counting. Together they have 18 children, 11 of which are living: Jesus Cortes, Miguel Cortes, Salvador Cortes, Jose Cortes, Serapio Cortes, Elias Cortes, Daniel Cortes, Manuel Cortes, Gonzalo Cortes, Rosa Pérez, Jesús Ceja They have 50 grandchildren, nearly 90 great grandchildren and 14 great-great grandchildren.
There is never a dull moment with Papú. If he is not finding someone to share his storytelling skills with, he is making silly faces at people or doing any kind of gestures to make people laugh. He is always inspiring his family and friends to not take life so seriously all the time.
Papús most memorable experience would have to be celebrating his 100th birthday this past February with 300 guests including his family and close friends. His day started with a mass where he was given a blessing for this grand milestone. He later celebrated with his family and friends with a Mariachi and a Norteño band. He spent his night laughing, talking with loved ones, and enjoying his celebration to the fullest. He is well-known for having a great love for Coca-Cola. He often struggles with an appetite for food, so when he is offered something to eat, he usually says “mejor una coquita”, which translates to “how about a Coke instead?” In his own words Papú once said “As long as I am not without beans to eat and my family is by my side, I am already rich.”
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
23
NOVEMBER 14, 1921
TEODORA CRUZ
“
Teodora worked in housekeeping at a local motel for 20 years and then retired in the mid-1980s. Her hobbies were growing vegetables in her yard, sewing, and cooking. She was very family-oriented and had several family gatherings and took care of her 3 children until they all graduated from high school before 24
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
“
T
eodora Cruz was born in Binmaley Pangasinan in the Philippines. She married the love of her life Modesto V. Cruz on 1/24/1948 in the Philippines. They moved to the states in 1949 and made their home in South Vallejo when her husband started working for Mare Island in the early 1950s.
Teodora’s most memorable experience was celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary with friends and family
going to work in housekeeping. Teodora also helped to take care of some of her grandchildren to help her children while they worked. She took frequent trips to the Philippines when her husband was alive to visit their relatives. Teodora now enjoys going to the casino and watching her Giants play baseball. She also enjoys going out to eat at various restaurants with family, her favorite is Olive Garden.
Teodora’s husband Modesto V Cruz passed away in 1999 together they had 3 children. Her son Herbert, and daughters Helene and Gloria. They have 6 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-grandson. When asked what Teodora’s secret to longevity she likes to have chicken soup, with lots of vegetables and some rice. No salt or pork is in her diet. She also likes to wash dishes. She drinks lots of water, doesn’t smoke or drink alcohol. She tries to stay active; and exercise for 30 minutes every day, and she fixes her bed after she wakes up. Having her children around and provide support and care in her home.
JANUARY 6, 1920
“
“
ELDA DEHNBOSTEL
Elda’s secret to longevity is good genes and being raised with sulfur water
E
lda Dehnbostel was born on a farm in N.W. Ohio, retired to Yuma, AZ and moved to Solano County to be near her favorite daughter.
She was married to late husband Rudolph, they had 4 children Barbra, Mary, Jerry, Sue, and 7 grandchildren: Marc, Mike, Tony, Amy, Kristian, Brooke, John and Billy.
Elda had a career in secretarial work and enjoyed reading, sewing, quilting, gardening and visiting with friends as some of her many hobbies.
One of her most memorable experiences has been celebrating her 100th birthday with family from all over the US coming to celebrate.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
25
JULY 28, 1919
“
L
ois was born in Dalhart, Texas, she graduated from Texas Technological with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. During WWII she became a Civil Service employee.
Lois Secret to Longevity: “Be active”
“
LOIS DITTMER
Lois worked as a substitute teacher for the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District for 13 years.
Married to Robert Dittmer for 69 years and counting. Lois has two children: Jeffrey and Suzanne; four grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
Lois is a past President of the Wednesday Club, the Fairfield Community Hospital Guild, and the Women’s Division of Green Valley Country Club.
26
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
NOVEMBER 20, 1920
ROBERT "BOB" DITTMER
R
obert is a native Californian and was born in Fairfield. He grew up on the Dittmer Ranch, purchased by his grandfather in 1881 and operated by Robert today as the fifth generation. Robert attended Green Valley Grammar School and Armijo High School.
“
Following the war, he attended Washington State University and worked at Travis Air Base. On August 5, 1950, during the Korean War, Robert was on duty as assistant fire chief when General
“
After high school graduation, he worked at Mare Island prior to the war. During World War II, Robert served on the Eighth Air Force as a Lieutenant on a B-17 crew as navigator-bombardier.
personnel still on board. The explosion, created by an atomic bomb on the aircraft, caused extensive damage, breaking plate glass store windows as far away as Suisun.
He met Lois on base. They started dating and were married in 1951; they have two children and four grandchildren
Robert and a partner owned and operated Fairfield Glass Company in Fairfield and Vacaville Glass Company in Vacaville for more than 29 years and were active in Downtown Merchants and miscellaneous civic affairs. Bob has been a member of Kiwanis International for more than 50 years.
Robert F. Travis Commander’s aircraft crashed, burned, and exploded. General Travis survived the crash but died enroute to the hospital. Robert was severely burned as he attempted to enter the aircraft to rescue military
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
27
SEPTEMBER 28, 1920
“
“
EURATEE DRAPER
Her Secret to longevity is being thankful and grateful.
E
uratee was born in Crockett, TX and moved to California in the 1940’s. Worked in San Francisco for most of her life and retired to Ione, CA. She moved to Vacaville to be closer to family after the death of her husband Sam Draper; they had two children Annis Jones and Robert Earl Ellis. She loves to gamble and is pretty good at it from horses, Blackjack, Poker and a mean game of Pokeno. When she lived in Ione, they grew lots of produce, which were very delicious.
Euratee loved to travel. She loves sports and still keeps up with them today. One of her most memorable experiences was traveling abroad. Her last trip was about 15 years ago to Greece. Today she enjoys playing bingo and taking care of herself.
28
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
APRIL 26, 1919
STANLEY EMERSON
S
Stanley was born in Westwood California; he married Lillian Born and has two daughters: Judy and Susan, 4 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. Stanley became the Solano County Undersheriff in 1955.
He dedicated 34 years to helping solve numerous cases with the Sheriff ’s office. Founded the department’s first Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) squad. Didn’t give up his motorcycle until he was 93.
“
“
His Secret to Longevity; “Walking and two glasses of wine every day”
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
29
SEPTEMBER 10, 1917
LAVONNE EYRES
L
avonne was born in Iowa, and her entire life has revolved around music. In high school and in college, she sang in the chorus, played the violin. Married to her husband for 73 years, has 3 children, 7 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
“
“
Eat Healthy, Learn by loving, Make the most of each day and enjoy it
Mrs. Eyers was a military wife & Homemaker; she has a BS in Institution Management. Lavonne is an artist , She has beautiful pictures that she has painted hanging in her room; she played the piano, the organ, and sang in the choir. She enjoys reading newspapers and magazines, walking, playing bridge and bingo,
30
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
taking care of her plants, and sitting on the patio. Lavonne most memorable experience was when her late husband asked her to marry him, she said “get a job first”. LaVonne creates realism paintings with watercolors and oils.
DECEMBER 20, 1920
ROSALIND FARADAY
R
osalind Faraday attended NYU in 1940 and volunteered to be part of a group of fifteen women in a program, sponsored by the CAA to determine whether women could learn to fly. Trained in Piper Cub Seaplanes at Babylon, Long Island, made cross- country flights and received limited licenses.
Faraday helped build the ships and planes that America used to win in World War II.
“
“
Secret to longevity: “Luck, live an easy life”
So, she went to work on planes for the war effort, installing gearboxes into Grumman Wildcat fighter planes on Long Island. Work went from about 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, with quitting time shortened to 4 p.m. Saturdays. “Most of our lives were in the factory,” she said.
She met her late husband Jim Faraday in 1943 on a blind date a Major at the time, Orders moved them to San Francisco, where their two daughters were born. She earned a California teaching credential and a Master’s degree at San Jose State. She taught high school English and Public Address. She and Jim were Avid sailors and enjoyed the waters of San Francisco Bay, the Caribbean, and the San Juan Islands. Jim died in 2001, when she moved to Fairfield Paradise Valley Estates Retirement Community, her hobbies include photography, essay writing, reading and classical music. She has 3 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Faraday says, “It made me feel qualified to work on airplanes,” she said, adding she’s not sure why she felt this correlation.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
31
NOVEMBER 5, 1921
J
ohn Gonge was born on Nov. 5, 1921, in Ansley, Nebraska. He graduated from Ansley High School in 1938 and became an aviation cadet at the U.S. Army Air Corps Flying School in Lubbock Army Airfield, Texas. He received his pilot wings and a commission as a second lieutenant in December 1943.
“
During World War II, Gonge flew the “hump” in the ChinaBurma-India campaigns with the Army Air Corps Air Transport Command. In September 1946, he was assigned to the 47th Bombardment Group at Lake Charles Army Airfield, Louisiana, and transferred with the 47th Group to Biggs Field, Texas.
General Gonge is a recipient of the Order of the Sword, he was the tenth man to ever receive that honor from the non-commissioned officer corps
bases before being assigned as commander of the 22nd Air Force (MAC) at Travis Air Force Base from August 1972 to August 1975 and became Vice Command of the Military Airlift.
In May 1953, Gonge was assigned to Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii as special projects officer in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Pacific Division. He later became administrative assistant to the commander. Other assignments included Parks Air Force Base in California and Clark Air Base in The Philippines. In July 1969, Gonge returned to TAFB as vice commander of the 60th Military Airlift Wing. He also served at other Air Force
32
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
“
JOHN GONGE
Gonge has more than 13,000 flying hours. His military decorations and awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with One Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal, and the Distinguished Unit Citation Emblem. Shortly after he retired in 1977, at age 56, he became the general manager at Travis Federal Credit Union, which is now Travis Credit Union. Gonge served as the credit union’s general manager and president until 1994.
AUGUST 3, 1918
MILDRED HEALY
During the time her husband Dick was in the Pacific during WWII, she joined the Red Cross Motor Corps. Millie was listed in both “Who’s who of American Women” and “The World’s Who’s Who”.
“
Secret to longevity: “Never go see a doctor”
She served as a President of the Menlo- Atherton Board of Realtors, and a director of the California Association of Realtors. Hobbies swimming,
she likes include singing, dancing
“
M
ildred” Millie” Healy was born in the City of San Francisco
and was an avid tennis player. Her favorite memories are the summers she would spend at the Russian River in California with her friends and family.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
33
JANUARY 19, 1921
J
ohn W. Knebel was born in a farmhouse in Southern Illinois, raised on a grain and dairy farm driving tractors and farm trucks by the age of 10 years old. John had three careers throughout his life all in aviation. John’s father flew in the Army Signal Corps during World War I, which inspired him to become a pilot. John W. Knebel received his commercial pilot’s license at age 19. He earned a B.A. degree in meteorology at San Diego State University in 1954. He graduated from the U.S. Navy Test Pilot School in 1957 and carrier qualified aboard the Navy carrier USS Saipan, also in 1957. John eventually retired from the U.S. Airforce as a Lt. Colonel with 21 years of service.
34
“
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
“
JOHN KNEBEL
Secret to Longevity: “Don’t take work home with you”
John then Flew 15 years as an engineering test pilot for Convair at San Diego; retired in 1965 as Chief Engineering Test Pilot. Flew experimental test flights on CV 240/340/440 and CV-XFY-l and VTOL “Pogo Stick” and F-102 and STOL “Charger” and PBY and R3Y Flying Boat programs. Don Germer and Knebel hold the transcontinental speed record of 6 hours for seaplanes set on Feb. 24, 1955, in a CV-R3Y Tradewind (8 engine flying boat). John Retired as Jet Airline Captain in 1981 at age 60 after 15 years with Trans International Airlines as airline captains at that time were forced by the FAA to retire at the age of 60 years old.
John and his wife Marie lived in Bel Marin Keys for 50 years, before moving to Fairfield, Paradise Valley Estates in 2018. Together they had 4 Children 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Some of John’s favorite hobbies throughout his life were building his own sports car water sports, he now enjoys bocce Ball.
John’s most memorable moment was his first flight testing the conniver XFY-1 VTOL Navy Fighter- The first successful highperformance VTOL ever built.
JULY 27, 1921
CAROLINE LOW
C
aroline Joe Low was born on July 27, 1921, near Vorden on the Sacramento Delta. During WWII, she worked for the Ordnance Department in San Francisco in 1943. Caroline married Henry Low on March 2, 1947, and they lived in Suisun Valley until 1985 before moving to Fairfield. Then moving to Fairfield in 1985. Together they have 4 children, 5 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.
“
“
Caroline’s secret to longevity is a happy spirit
Caroline has been very active in her retirement and engaged in many activities which include Wednesday Club, Northbay Hospital Guide, Chinese Community Club. During her life, she has enjoyed traveling, picnics, cooking, projects, and most importantly spending time with family.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
35
MAY 29, 1917
MARIA LUZ TOBIAS GALANG
aria was born in Pampanga, Philippines, and moved to the US in
M
Loves to dance; graduated from Brazilian dancing school and choreographed moves for her grandchildren’s’ school dances.
Married Fernando Galang Sr. in 1938; had 5 children, 18 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
Secret to longevity: Coffee, fruits, and vegetables; keep one’s sense of humor; appreciate life and the little things
1933.
36
“
“
She was an avid gardener and caretaker of her family’s property
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
AUGUST 23, 1920
ANGELINA MEREDITH
A
ngelina was born in Fairfield, CA. After her father passed when she was 8, she raised vegetables for a wholesale grocer in Vallejo. Eventually her mother remarried, and the family purchased a ranch in Suisun Valley in 1935, where she helped her mother and stepfather run the ranch. Angelina still resides on the family ranch.
“
“
During the Second World War Angelina worked as an essential war time worker at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard in the machinist shop making ship propellers. After the war she continued to help her family on the ranch. She also became a partner in a successful delicatessen near Travis Air Force Base.
Work hard and enjoy people’s company”. She was an avid gardener and caretaker of her family’s property
Angelina married Jack Meredith in 1972. She met Jack while working at Gillespie’s Cleaners in Fairfield. They were happily married until his passing in 2003.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
37
JUNE 4, 1921
THEODORE MERTZ
“
When asked about how he felt to turn 100, he had a one-word answer “Alive”
Once he narrowly escaped exposure when the Japanese patrol were within three feet of his hiding place. He left the military in 1945 and stayed in the Philippines as a crane operator. While there, he mastered the native language. Tagalog, and also met the love of his life and future bride. Claire. They were married in 1946, and had their first daughter, Lara while still overseas, and then three others, Patsy, Ramona and Sue who were born in Sacramento. “The family grew to include seven grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren. After 59 years of marriage, he lost Claire to complications from diabetes in 2005, and still considers their relationship his best achievement. In 1958, the family moved to the Bay Area where he worked on interstate freeway projects as a heavy equipment operator for 30
38
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
“
T
heodore Augustus Mertz was born June 4, 1921, in Danville, Illinois. Mertz was one of 11 children. Mertz’s Navy career began in 1941, when Mertz called to serve and defend our country after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. He was stationed in the Philippines as an Aviation Ordinance Man, First Class V6, and was responsible for inspecting, maintaining and repairing the aircraft’s mechanical and electrical armament/dance systems. He also stowed, assembled, and loaded aviation ammunition that included handling everything from aerial mines and torpedoes to missiles and rockets. During his tenure, he volunteered as a spotter to call in artillery strikes against the Japanese, living and hiding for three years in the dense jungle with the Filipino underground.
years. Mertz began to experience hearing loss from exposure to the loud machinery in the ‘60s and was almost completely deaf by the 80s.
Mertz contributes his own longevity in part to his positive attitude. He has always maintained that things were going to work out, no matter what happened. His daughters agree that he has been a very easy going, happy, and positive person throughout their lives, never one to worry or fret about inevitable things. His attitude has always been that everything will work out.
MARCH 21, 1921
“
“
L
eendert “Leo” Miener is a Holland native. He joined the Dutch merchant marines as a cadet engineer in 1939. He was drafted by the Dutch Navy for the duration of the war, and augmented the U.S. merchant fleet, supplying Allied troops in the Pacific. Leo had his first vacation in 1943, when his ship was converted to a troop transport in Alameda, California.
LEENDERT "LEO" MIENER
After moving to Concord, California, he became an American citizen in 1949
He at that time took the bus from San Francisco to Los Angeles to visit friends and picked a seat next to a young lady. After getting acquainted, they fell in love, and married in October 1943. After the
war, Leo returned to Holland— wife Karola and baby Lenie joined him for three months. At that same time of his returning was his father from a Japanese prison camp and his brother, who had gone underground to avoid being sent to Germany. Leo was discharged from the Dutch Navy in New York.
In 1995, He received the honor of becoming a U.S. Army Veteran of the Army Transportation Corps and for his service during World War II from 1942 through 1946. Karola, his wife, had a wonderful life together that lasted almost 70 years before she passed away in September 2013. Leo has enjoyed hiking, traveling, gardening, and woodcarving throughout his life.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
39
OCTOBER 14, 1920
EVELYN "LYNN" MILAS
“
Irvington NJ in 1946. Lynn came to Solano County in 1947 with Tim where they lived in a quonset Hut at 124 Perry St on Mare Island. Lynn and Tim lived throughout the United States and abroad until 1970 when they returned to Mare Island for Tim’s last assignment
“
L
ynn Milas was born in Brooklyn, New York. In her teens, her family moved to northern New Jersey. In 1943 she enlisted in the USMC. While in service she met Tim Milas, a submarine sailor, at the Top of the Mark. They were married in
I don’t think there’s any secret, I think everyone who has hit the 100 mark has worked hard to get there
and eventual retirement. They lived in Vallejo until Tim passed away in 2016 just after celebrating their 70th anniversary.
Since then, Lynn has continued to be a Vallejo resident. Together Lynn and Tim have two sons Paul and Kevin two grandchildren Matthew and Katie and greatgrandchildren Ava, Lincoln, Ethan, and Grant. Lynn has enjoyed many hobbies throughout her life, she was very athletic. She was a high school cheerleader, a swimmer, and later an enthusiastic golfer. She hiked the Bay Area well into her 70s. 40
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
One of Lynn’s most memorable experiences was her WWII USMC service, this has been a highlight of her life. Lynn loves Astaire/ Rodgers musicals, fried zucchini sticks at Zio Fraedo, and New York-style crumb cake.
JUNE 17, 1920
TSUYAKO 'GRACE" MIYAGISHIMA Tsuyako’s most memorable experience in life was being sent to a Japanese concentration camp in Gila Arizona, when WWII started, nowadays she enjoys being at home with her husband and watching tv.
“
Secret to longevity: Living life at Paradise Valley Estates Retirement Community
“
G
race Miyagishima was born in Lompoc, CA. She moved to San Francisco following World War II, where she met her now husband of 71 years Teuro “Ted”. They married in 1949, and moved to Tokyo, Grace worked as an Army Civilian employee, and then had their son James in 1953, After her husband retired from the Military they returned to California and settled in San Jose, before moving to Fairfield.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
41
AUGUST 10, 1919
VIRGINIA NOORDYK
“
“
Her secret to long life - no smoking or drinking and try to keep busy doing the things you enjoy
V
irginia was born and raised in Atchison, Kansas and worked in Kansas City until she moved in 1946 to Fairfield, CA for better opportunities and a new life. Virginia met and married Travis AFB officer Col. Edward P. Noordyk. During their marriage they were stationed in many parts of the world and US, and finally went back to Travis AFB. They lived in Vacaville until retirement and then moved to Paradise Valley Estates retirement community in 1999.
two grandchildren, five great grandchildren.
Virginia enjoyed sewing, quilting, gardening, traveling, taking care of her pet dogs and beloved parrots. Was a skilled seamstress for many years, earned her LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) credentials at Georgetown University in Washington, DC and volcano on the island of Hawaii while on a trip with her son when she was 75 years old. Since she is over 100 now, she enjoys the simple pleasures of eating, sleeping, listening to music, family visits, sunshine and fresh air in the community’s garden areas and staying above ground. worked at the California Medical Facility in Fairfield as a nurse until she retired.
Virginia and Richard have one son: Richard Noordyk,
42
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
One of her most memorable experiences would have been a helicopter ride over the active
APRIL 1, 1921
ANITA PARKER
A
nita Parker was born and lived in Texas until 1941, at which time she moved to Fresno, CA. In 1943, she joined the Navy Waves and was sent to Hunters College, New York, for basic training.
“
“
Anita worked as a vocalist with dance bands in Chicago, Phoenix, and Fresno. Anita has two daughters from her first marriage. After retiring from Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Cord in 1986 she married her late husband late Harry that same year.
Harry & Anita met in a traveling golf club, and very much enjoyed their many years golfing together
After going thru storekeeper school at Georgia State College for Women, Anita was stationed at Pasco, WA, then later stationed in Hawaii. After Anita’s discharge, she studied voice in Chicago, modeled and worked for Esquire Inc., later for Popular Mechanics.
Anita and Harry enjoyed 33 years together and, have lived in Fairfield for over 14 years.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
43
FEBRUARY 9, 1915
DOROTHY PENNYCOTT
D
“
“
Secret to Longevity: “Eat what you want, but eat moderately”
orothy Pennycott has one daughter, 2 granddaughters, 2 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Fixed and sold 43 properties. Married to Tom for 59 years.
44
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
She enjoys playing bingo at the McBride Center on Tuesdays Vacaville Mayor Len Augustine declared February 9, 2017, as Dorothy Pennycott Day!
JULY 19, 1921
MURRAY SCHACHT
“
“
Secret to longevity: I can’t give you the answer. You will have to ask God!
M
r. Murray Schacht was born on June 19th, 1921, in San Francisco, California. He currently lives at Laurel Creek in Paradise Valley Estates.
Murray currently has a sister, and two sons.
He was born and raised in San Francisco, but he was drafted into the army, and after his service in the army, lived in San Jose for 54 years.
His most precious memory is being married to his wife for exactly 59 years and 10 months.
He thoroughly enjoys watching big sports games and his favorite sport to watch is football.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
45
APRIL 8, 1917
BRUCE SOOY
He started off his career working on B-17 Flying Fortress engines, and then entered pilot training school in June 1942. He graduated as a second lieutenant and went on to become a B-24 Liberator pilot. He was stationed in England in 1943, ready to fly over Germany.
“
During the war, Sooy flew 23 bombing missions beginning in November 1943. During his 23rd bombing mission on March 18, 1944, with the primary being Friedrichshafen, Germany, the lead plane in Sooy’s formation made a critical error he says:
“
L
t. Col Bruce Sooy is a retired Army Air Corps and Air Force veteran, was born April 17, 1917, in Greenbank, New Jersey.
At 103 years old, he tells his World War II story as if it happened yesterday
“Picture 900 bombers in a stream,” he said. “We were doing 192 mph, which is fast at more than 20,000 feet with a load of bombs. Our normal speed was around 165.” “All 10 of us bailed out, all 10 of us were captured and all 10 of us made it home,” he said. “We were lucky. I am the last one from the crew still alive”.
46
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
After 13 months as a POW, on April 29, 1945, Gen. George Patton’s 3rd Army liberated the crew. His last position at Travis was as the deputy director of logistics plans for the 22nd Air Force. He retired after 40 years of service in 1979. Sooy was married to his late wife, Evelyn, for 67 years. He has three children, Mark, Yvonne, and Carol, and is a resident of Vacaville, California. The windshield from Sooy’s plane was stored in a German barn for 70 years before it made its way to Travis AFB.
AUGUST 17, 1920
CHARLOTTE STACK
“
Some of her memorable experiences in life have been graduating college, getting married, the birth of her twins. .
“
C
harlotte Stack was born in Hayward CA and raised in Puyallup Washington. She married Gerald Edward Stack, they had two children Kathrine, and Gary.
Love people who help, she is blessed that her life is good along with god and prayers kept her going through hard times and trouble
Charlotte has enjoyed traveling throughout life and has been on 31 cruises. She enjoys reading and quilting. Now she enjoys visiting friends, children, reading, and calling friends.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
47
DECEMBER 1, 1921
BERNICE "BEA" SULLIVAN
B
ernice “Bea” Sullivan Bernice (Bea) was born to travel. She began her odyssey during her father’s naval career, stationed in Hawaii three times before she was 18 years old. The third assignment was the charm—she extended her traveling career by marrying a 2nd Lt. AAF at Hickam Field in July 1941. This led to a Pearl Harbor survivor’s role by virtue of being in quarters at Hickam during the attack. Hawaii is still her special place. Living in Tokyo and New Delhi later in life did not make her change her mind.
48
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
“
“
Bea and her Husband Sully moved to Fairfield Paradise Valley as a “slow down, but many more adventures awaited
A son, born in CA and a daughter, born in Tokyo are the jewels in her life, along with four beautiful grandchildren and two great grandchildren, and of course, Sully, the love of her life and late husband of 63 years. Bea’s favorite activities include swimming, golf, bridge, gardening and traveling.
When Sully retired, the family moved from Georgia to Los Angeles, which proved to be a launch pad for further travel adventures—to Asia, Europe, North Africa, and South America.
MAY 12, 1921
JULIETTE THOMAS
“
“
Her most memorable experiences took place during the Battle of the Bulge
men, all so very young, of the 101 stands 102nd Airborne off the trucks from Exeter Airbase. They had been made “sieves” as they parachuted down. On her 30-day furlough after VE Day, she and George were married.
J
ulie Thomas was born in Oak Park, Illinois, and graduated from the University of Michigan School of Nursing in 1943. She and her husband George met at her first Army Post at Camp McCoy, Wisconsin. He was a MAC officer, with a specialty in rehabilitation, and she was an
Army nurse. When her unit was sent overseas on the Queen Mary with three infantry divisions, she served on the south coast of England with the 112th General Hospital until the surrender of Germany in May 1945. Julie worked in a “hut” hospital in the Devon hills. Their job was to “patch” the men up enough to be returned to active duty.
They had four sons, living in Walnut Creek for 30 years while George practiced dentistry and Julie was ranch wife and willing volunteer in museums, church, and schools. She spent many years as an ombudsman for the Contra Costa County care facilities.
Her most memorable experiences took place during the Battle of the Bulge days of taking the muddy, machine-gunned CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
49
NOVEMBER 17, 1920
VIRGINIA TILLEN Virginia served for another 2 years after discharge handling classified and secret documents
“
in Tokyo, when the war ended helping in the establishment of the Japanese government.
“
V
irginia Tillen was born in St. Paul Minnesota in 1920. Virginia was determined to have a meaningful career after graduating from St. Paul’s Globe Business College. With World War II raging at the time, she worked for two years in a metallurgist lab, checking the quality of war as the chaplain’s assistant before being transferred to intelligence.
Virginia’s secret to longevity is “Good genes, diet, interest, moderate exercise, lots of liquid water”
During that time, she met her soon to be husband U.S. Lt. Commander Frank Tillen, they were married in 1948. Soon after welcoming their first child Frank, after she moved back to St. Paul with her parents. Daughter Michelle came a few years later.
Virginia, a restless lady, spent her life on the go. She was a secretary of the First Methodist Church in Norfolk. Virginia sold mutual funds, insurance, and even water beds. She was president of the garden club and her family also owned a Baskin Robbins. In 2010, the Tillen’s eventually retired and moved to Trilogy in Rio Vista to be closer to their son. Virginia husband Frank passed away after nearly 70 years of marriage at 92. 50
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
JUNE 9, 1921
XANTHIA WARREN
X
anthia Warren grew up in Missouri and graduated in 1938 as class valedictorian. She received a bachelor’s degree in 1942, a master’s degree in 1991 and would later become an educator for 32 years in Solano County.
Xanthia and James raised three sons, James, Stewart and Dwayne.
A brave woman, she flew with her husband, who got his private pilot’s license when he was 87.
“
“
During a stint in Chicago in World War II, Xanthia met her husband Air Force Lt. Colonel James Warren, one of the original the Tuskegee Airmen while working for the Treasury Department. They married in 1950 and two years later he was recalled to active duty. They would spend time on bases in Washington, Germany, Oklahoma and at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield and she would return to teaching.
She is also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society, an international organization of women teachers; the Retired Teachers Association; American Association of University Women; Bethany Lutheran Church; and the Lee A. Archer Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen.
Her fondest memory was attending President Barack Obama’s inaugural parade with her husband, which honored Tuskegee Airmen
Her teaching career also flourished, spending nearly 28 years at Ulatis Elementary School in Vacaville. Xanthia also enjoyed being involved in the community for 40 years. She has been a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for 81 years and is a charter member of the local chapter, Solano Valley.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
51
NOVEMBER 13, 1920
JANET WILHART
J
anet Wilhard was born in San Francisco CA, raised in Mill Valley Ca, and Sacramento before moving to Solano County. Janet Married Ray R. Wilhart and had 2 children: Diane and Marilyn. Her many hobbies include playing bridge, country club activities, golfing, dancing and entertaining friends. Her most memorable experience was in 1958 when her husband Ray purchased a historical Vacaville home that was built in 1864. It came with 10 acres of land; they fixed it up, put in a pool, and both of their daughters were married there to in the garden. Janet currently enjoys playing bridge, meeting new friends, and enjoying her apartment. Secret to longevity: “My mother and grandmother lived to 98, grandfather lived into
52
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
“
“
My mother and grandmother lived to 98, grandfather lived into his 80’s
his 80’s, I was loved and cared for as I grew up, lived with my happiness my dear husband and delightful daughters”.
JUNE 17, 1911
RETA WILLS
R
eta Wils was born June 17, 1911 to Estella Wadley and Richard Fowler in Ellis County, Texas. Reta was the second of four children born to this union, she had an older sister and two younger brothers.
Reta was raised in Dallas, Texas. She married James Wills in 1946. They were married for a short time and there were no children from this union.
At an early age Reta accepted Christ into her life. Throughout her life she was a devout Christian. Reta had a beautiful voice, she sang in the choir and loved to sing gospel songs.
“
“
Treat others as you want to be treated. Love your friends, family and God
Reta moved to Los Angeles, California after World War II. She lived in Los Angeles for forty years. Reta later moved to Gardenerville, Nevada; Fairfield, California and Vallejo, California.
Reta was loved by all and had many friends. She showed love to everyone and was kind, polite and appreciative. Reta has been honored for the last 9 years by Solano County Board of Supervisors. At the time of her passing she was the oldest person in Solano County and passed just shy of her 110th Birthday. Reta lived a long and inspirational life and will never be forgotten.
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
53
AUGUST 25, 1921
LEONA YOUNG Joe served in World War II and the Korean War and had several assignments over the course of 22 years, which brought him and Leona all over the world.
L
eona Young was born Leona Hargus on Aug. 25, 1921, in Indiana, and she said she remains a proud Hoosier. She lived in the state until she was 19, when she eloped with the love of her life, Joe, whom she wed on May 2, 1940. He was a second lieutenant in the Army and became stationed at what was later known as WrightPatterson Air Force Base in Ohio.
Along the way, they had eight children: Ralph, Mary, Dave, Gary, Herbert, Sharon, George and Alice.
In 1964, the Youngs moved to Vallejo, where Joe worked as a teacher at Springstown Junior High School for 12 years. All the while, Leona remained busy donating her time to various endeavors, including PTA meetings and volunteering for local Boy and Girl Scout troops.
One of the most exciting assignments for Leona was when her husband was stationed in Germany.
In addition to her eight children, Leona also has 24 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren.
“We spent three years in Germany,” she said. “I had a daughter born over there.”
Leona credits three things to her longevity. One is the fact that she does not smoke or drink. The second is that she has three daughters nearby who take care of her. Finally, there is her spirituality. “The secret of living a long life is that I know I have a savior, Jesus Christ,” she said. “He’s with me every minute.”
“
“
I don’t feel like I’m 100, I feel more like I might be 80
54
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
IN REMEMBRANCE
Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure HARRY CARSCH
DRUCILLIA COOK
LOIS FITZGERALD
EILEEN TRAYNOR
ELSIE HALSTED
DOROTHY HINES
VIOLA JOSEY
MARY LOOMIS
TERUO MIYAGISHIMA
RED MOAK
CYRIL O’ NEAL
CHARLIE PARSONS
BERNICE RAEMER
JULIA RICO
GEARLD SIMONI
ROBERT SULLIVAN
GUILLERMO VELASCO
HAZEL WALTERS
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
55
You don’t need to promise me the moon and the stars just promise me you will stand under them with me forever
TOGETHER FOR A LIFETIME RUTH & HARRY CARSCH With Harry serving in the military as an officer, this couple managed to see the world together from to Japan, France, and eventually settle down in California. These adventures together became some of Ruth’s fondest memories of her time with Harry.
ROBERT & LOIS DITTNER SINCE 1951 During the war effort, Lois became a Civil Service employee where she would eventually meet Robert while on base. They would begin dating shortly after before getting married in 1951. Over time, they welcomed two children, Jeffrey and Suzanne.
TED & GRACE MIYAGISHIMA SINCE 1949 After moving to San Francisco, Grace would meet Ted shortly before they two got married in 1949. With Ted serving in the military, they were moved to Tokyo, Japan where Grace followed in Ted’s path by working as an Army Civilian employee and eventually have a child, James, in 1953.
ROBERT & BERNICE SULLIVAN SINCE 1941 Coming from a military family, Bernice was destined to run into Robert during one of her father’s assignments to a Hawaiian Air Force Base where Robert was stationed. After being married on base the two traveled the world but nothing could top the importance that Hawaiian base in their lives.
56
CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION 2021
BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN OF
s e c i v r e S d e X Our Arm Richard Betchley
Gaylon caldwell
Stanley Emerson
Theodore Mertz
Robert Dittmer
John Knebel
John Gonge
Leendert Miener
Murray Schacht
Earl Chinnock
Evelyn Milas
Bruce Sooy
Anita Parker
Juliette Thomas
Rosie the Riveters X
Rosalind Faraday
GO FORWARD TOGETHER we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender.
DESIGNED BY: THOM CLYMA INFORMATION BY: JENALEE DAWSON ORGANIZED BY: MATTHEW DAVIS