Solano County Centenarian 2022 Yearbook

Farideh Amirkhizi

Richard Betchley

Hazel Booher

Marjorie Bors

Irene Bruce

CW Callaway

Walter Carroll

Arthur Child

Earl Chinnock

Anna Conger

Phyllis Craig

Rosita Cruz

Robert Dittmer

Philomae Dixon

2022 HONOREES

Stanley Emerson

Evelyn Ewing

LaVonne Eyres

Rosalind Faraday

Maria Luz Tobias Galang

John Gonge

Charlotte Hahn

Shirley Helmich

Eunice Hilton

Pearl Joe

Angie King

John Knebel

Margaret Koehler

Robert Kuznick

Caroline Low

Navarre Marshall

Walter McDaniel

Muriel Mines

Tsuyako (Grace) Miyagashima

Virginia Ruth Plunkett

Mary Alice Powe

Blanche Richardson

Bruce Sooy

Charlotte Stack

Juliette Thomas

Guadalupe Vidales

Xanthia Warren

Leona Young

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD

THE SOLANO COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS IS HONORED TO SHARE ITS 16 TH ANNUAL CENTENARIAN COMMEMORATION WITH YOU.

THIS YEARBOOK IS A TRIBUTE TO THIS COUNTY’S OLDEST LIVING RESIDENTS. THE PICTURES AND STORIES INSIDE THIS DOCUMENT HIGHLIGHT THE LIVES AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE GREATEST GENERATION, ROSIE THE RIVETERS, WAR VETERANS, COMMUNITY LEADERS, MOTHERS, FATHERS, GRANDPARENTS AND GREAT GRANDPARENTS.

THESE INDIVIDUALS HAVE CONTRIBUTED SO MUCH AND ARE TRULY THE FABRIC OF OUR SOCIETY. WE CAN LEARN A LOT FROM OUR CENTENARIANS AND WE FEEL IT IS IMPORTANT TO LISTEN TO THEIR STORIES, GAIN INSIGHT FROM THEIR WORLD VIEW WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THEIR LIVED EXPERIENCE IS UNLIKE THAT OF SO MANY OTHERS.

EACH CENTENARIAN LISTED IN THIS YEARBOOK HAS MADE A LASTING CONTRIBUTION TO THEIR FAMILIES AND THOSE AROUND THEM. WE CANNOT MEASURE THE VALUE THEY CONTINUE TO BRING TO US ALL, BUT WE STRIVE TO RECOGNIZE THEM AND OFFER A PLATFORM FOR THEIR VOICES. THIS RECOGNITION ALSO SERVES AS A TRIBUTE TO THOSE WHO HAD SADLY PASSED AWAY DURING THE CALENDAR YEAR.

WE HOPE YOU GET SOME ENJOYMENT OUT OF PERUSING THIS DOCUMENT AND TAKE A MOMENT TO REFLECT ON EVERYTHING THAT OUR OLDEST LIVING RESIDENTS HAVE PROVIDED TO US.

ERIN HANNIGAN DISTRICT 1

MONICA BROWN DISTRICT 2 VICE CHAIR

JIM SPERING DISTRICT 3

JOHN M. VASQUEZ DISTRICT 4 CHAIR

MITCH MASHBURN DISTRICT 5

THEIR STORIES

Whether 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 2022 Centenarians, we have the ability to hear the stories

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

JANUARY 15, 1921

FARIDEH AMIRKHIZI

Farideh 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 was an artist, not only could she draw, but she was also an expert seamstress, and

got worse. In 2015 her husband passed, and she moved to Vacaville to a memory care facility.

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

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.

Farideh’s secret to longevity is perhaps her love for tea

JUNE 1, 1920

RICHARD BETCHLEY

Richard Betchleywas born in Brooklyn and raised in Long Island, NY, and Jamaica, Long Island.

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.

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.

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.

Positive thinking is the key to a long, full life. Stay positive, and enjoy life

NOVEMBER 3, 1914

HAZEL BOOHER

Hazel 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.

Hazel played the organ for the church and sang in the choir; she enjoys music, FaceTime with

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 “ “

NOVEMBER 28, 1917

MARJORIE BORS

Always being active; keep mind busy with bridge and gardening; good kids and husband

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.

Marjorie and her family lived in the same home since 1960 and enjoyed cooking, cleaning and gardening.

Marjorie 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.

OCTOBER 16, 1918

IRENE BRUCE

Irene 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.

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.

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.

Not getting upset over simple things. Healthy eating and no smoking

He has written his memoirs and a history of the Mien church in English

CW 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

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

AUGUST 12, 1920

CW CALLAWAY

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.

SEPTEMBER 8, 1921

EARL CHINNOCK

Earl 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.

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.

His most precious memory through all his life is his wife, who he was married to for 69 years

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

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!”

MARCH 13, 1922

ANNA CONGER

Teaching first graders with the same love of education that her parents had given her “

After traveling to California with her husband and two young children, Anna learned that she could be a teacher; teaching first graders with the same love of education that her parents had given her.

Anna was born on a small farm in Doka, Indiana in 1922.

Growing up on a farm with her older sister afforded a sense of closeness as the two would spend their afternoons picking strawberries, milking the cows and taking care of chickens. Due to financial issues, her father was not able to finish school so he and her mother made sure that their children were able to accomplish what he couldn’t and made sure that Anna and her sister had a well-rounded education outside of the farm.

As Anna and her husband welcomed their third child, they began taking trips, not by car but by planes that they flew themselves. Anna’s husband loved to fly after he left the military and Anna, despite initial reservations,

took to flying as well. With their new found sense of freedom, they traveled to Alaska, New York, and across California.

In addition to flying, Anna loved to ski down blue diamond slopes, which would become annual tradition with her family as her photo albums filled up with pictures of her family on the slopes

JULY 10, 1922

PHYLLIS CRAIG

EEarly on she moved a lot from Iowa to Wisconsin. A farm girl, she shared her childhood with brothers Russ and Roland. They raised pigs, foxes and other critters.

She graduated high school in West Bend, Wisconsin, with her heart set on becoming a nurse and that is exactly what she did, joining St. Thereas’s School of Nursing in Waukegan, Illinois, in 1940. After working in several hospitals, she decided to enlist, joining the Army in 1945. Craig’s new military life saw her traveling to a lot of different spots on the globe.

Craig was not one to stay in one place long. She found out about a job at March Air Force Base in California. With her good friend Minnie Graff, they hopped a plane and came to the golden state for a new position in the hospital at the maternity ward.

While working the maternity ward, she was introduced to Edward Craig while visit a friend. They dated for about six weeks. After meeting his parents, Ed asked her to go to Alaska with him since he had orders to ship out.

She made sure to clarify that was as his wife not girlfriend and after conferring with her best gal pals, she came back with a firm yes to the trip to Alaska and yes to being his wife. They were married on May 27, 1948.

After spending a few months apart, their lifelong adventures

began together in Alaska. On February 19, 1949, they welcomed a son, Richard Lee, into their lives in Alaska. Over the years they had Linda in 1951 and then Marsha in 1953.

Phyllis retired from nursing after 21 years.

They could not stop traveling and the couple made many great memories for 47 years before the passing of Ed on April 7, 1997.

She stays active with various groups like the Lions Club and a nurses group. Her life story was included in the book, “Remembering WWII Women,” written by Linda E. Minton.

Her life story was included in the book, “Remembering WWII Women,” written by Linda E. Minton. “ “

MAY 17, 1920

ROSITA “ROSE” LOMBOY CRUZ

Rosita “Rose” Lomboy Cruz was born in Bauang, Ilocos Norte Philippines.

Having grown up in the Philippines, Rose met and married her husband, Joe Cruz while he was serving in the Air Force. A memory that will remain with her are the years she was raising her children while Joe was a prisoner of war during World War 2. After the war and Joe had returned safely, they decided to move from the Phillippines and eventually settled in Vallejo in 1960 and raised their eight children: Delfin, Crecencio, Theodore, Virginia, Eliseo, Joe Jr, Robert, and Herbert.

Family has always been an important aspect of Rose’s life and she has tried to spend as much time with her children, her 18 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchilden. Rose has embedded a love of gardening in her family,

to ensure that they understand the value of treasuring the life around them. When she’s not spending time with her family or in her garden, Rose enjoys going to casinos and using the luck that her life has brought her.

Secret to longevity: eating lots of vegetables and fruits and having faith in god “

NOVEMBER 20, 1920

ROBERT "BOB" DITTMER

Robert 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.

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.

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

He met Lois on base. They started dating and were married in 1951; they have two children and four grandchildren

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.

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

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.

AUGUST 25, 1921

PHILOMAE DIXON

Secret to longevity: Just longevity

Philomae Dixon was born an only child in Jeanerette, LA, being raised by her father and his grandmother in Rayne, LA.

As an adult, Philomae moved to Chicago, IL, where she spent over 40 years doing domestic work for prominent Chicagoans while raising her five children. As it was her passion, Philomae enjoyed cooking and baking for family and friends, always welcoming people to her table for a meal.

Philomae’s life has been full of milestones that have brought her closer to her family and the lord, such as her baptism, her high school graduation, her marriage, and the birth of her five children.

After suffering a minor medical condition, Philomae moved to Vallejo to be with her daughter in 2010. In recovery, she has enjoyed watching western movies and TV shows and reading maps. She still enjoys getting her family together for BBQ meals when it’s possible to spend time with her 19 grandchildren, 53 great children, and over 45 great great grandchildren.

APRIL 26, 1919

STANLEY EMERSON

SStanley 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.

Secret to Longevity; Walking and two glasses of wine every day “ “

Evenlyn Ewing was born in the family farmhouse in Valley County Nebraska. Nearest town was Ord Nebraska.

She was the second youngest of eleven children with 10 other siblings.

television, family visits and conversations with friends.

Evelyn’s most memorable experiences were the Great Depression as a child and young woman. And World War II as a mother and young wife. Her

JANUARY 5, 1922

EVELYN EWING

husband was absent during the war, and she again relied upon family and friends.

Secret to longevity? A caring and loving family, great friends and modern medicine. Although she will soon be 101, she often says that part of her is mid to late 20’s.

She doesn’t dwell on death. To her, people don’t “die”. They simply have a “shelf life” and eventually reach their “Expiration Date”; like the foods in the supermarket.

Orphaned at age 4, she was shuttled around and lived with her older siblings throughout Nebraska until married at age 18. She was brought to Solano County to be cared for and aided by her only child “Bill” Ewing and lives independently at Cogir retirement community in Vacaville.

Evelyn has one child, a son. Four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Her hobbies are baking, sewing, painting and cooking. She has worked as a housewife and waitress.

She currently enjoys baking, sewing, painting landscapes,

Secret to Longevity; A caring and loving family, great friends and modern medicine

SEPTEMBER 10, 1917

LAVONNE EYRES

Lavonne 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,

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

Secret to longevity: Luck, live an easy life

Rosalind 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.

Faraday says, “It made me feel qualified to work on airplanes,” she said, adding she’s not sure why she felt this correlation.

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.

MAY 29, 1917

MARIA LUZ TOBIAS GALANG

She was an avid gardener and caretaker of her family’s property

Maria was born in Pampanga, Philippines, and moved to the US in 1933.

Married Fernando Galang Sr. in 1938; had 5 children, 18 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

Loves to dance; graduated from Brazilian dancing school and choreographed moves for her grandchildren’s’ school dances.

Secret to longevity: Coffee, fruits, and vegetables; keep one’s sense of humor; appreciate life and the little things

NOVEMBER 5, 1921

JOHN GONGE

John 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

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 18, 1922

SHIRLEY HELMICH

Shirley Helmich was born and raised in Chicago, IL

Between her first husband that was in the Navy and her career at the expanding telecommunications company Pac Bell, Shirley was always on the move across the country; moving from Chicago to Minnesota, Los Angeles, Downey, Landers, and eventually settling in Vacaville to be with her son.

Secret to longevity: I like my candy bars, my ice cream. The lord has been good to me

Shirley worked in the traffic division for AT&T and saw the communications industry change throughout her time with the company as computers became a standard application

Later in life, Shirley was intrigued by a golf course that was by her house and decided to see what the sport that her late husband had been interested in so many years ago. After some lessons, she was hooked and would often be found on the course taking lessons, trying to improve her stroke, or just enjoying time with her expanding group of friends. A

part of the interest is she feels it is time spent with her late husband, finally enjoying a shared hobby together.

JANUARY 19, 1921

JOHN KNEBEL

John 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.

Secret to longevity: Don’t take work home with you

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.

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.

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.

JANUARY 21, 1921

MARGARET KOEHLER

Margaret Louise Keohler was born in Ballinger, Texas. Her childhood was full of adventures that she has spent a lifetime sharing with her children.

Throughout her adult life, Margaret has had a passion for nursing, as both a nurse practitioner and as an educator. Her accomplishments range from a PHD in Psychology, a Master’s in nursing, and a professor of nursing at California State University. She used this knowledge to practice nursing during World War 2 and across America at multiple hospitals.

Margaret eventually settled down in Solano County to be close to her family, which includes her two children Gretchen and Roger,

and two grandsons Adam and Grant.

After retirement, Margaret continued to travel across the country as she did while as a nurse, but is now expanding her travels to other countries. Her interest in education has continued to thrive with a love of watching science documentaries and reading books.

Though she has slowed down, she still enjoys spending time with her grandkids and sharing her knowledge with anyone willing to listen.

Secret to longevity: get up everyday, no matter who you feel. You won’t know what you’re missing if you don’t get out there

JULY 27, 1921

CAROLINE LOW

Caroline 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.

Secret to longevity: 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.

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

Grace 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.

Virginia was born in Auburn, CA before her family moved to Lincoln, CA where she spent her childhood and early adult years.

DECEMBER 24, 1921

VIRGINIA “RUTH” PLUNKETT

Has ten grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren

After meeting her future husband, James B. Plunkett, the two were married on September 22, 1945, and welcomed three sons shortly after. Family has remained an important aspect of Virginia’s life as she has ten grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren that she has had the pleasure of watching them grow.

In her free time, Virginia enjoys being involved with church, tending to her garden, and spending time baking for her friends and family.

JUNE 20, 1920

MARY ALICE POWE

“She enjoyed watching sports (she played softball as a young lady) and keeping up with news near and far

Mary 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.

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.

Most memorable experience besides marrying bill and her 5 children. Mary has loved to see her children grow and have their own children.

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.

Lt. Col Bruce Sooy is a retired Army Air Corps and Air Force veteran, was born April 17, 1917, in Greenbank, New Jersey.

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:

APRIL 8, 1917

BRUCE SOOY

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.

“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”.

At 103 years old, he tells his World War II story as if it happened yesterday

AUGUST 17, 1920

CHARLOTTE STACK

Charlotte Stack was born in Hayward CA and raised in Puyallup Washington. She married Gerald Edward Stack, they had two children Kathrine, and Gary.

Some of her memorable experiences in life have been graduating college, getting married, the birth of her twins. .

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.

MAY 12, 1921

JULIETTE THOMAS

Her most memorable experiences took place during the Battle of the Bulge

Julie 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.

Her most memorable experiences took place during the Battle of the Bulge days of taking the muddy, machine-gunned

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.

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.

DECEMBER 24, 1920

GUADALUPE VIDALES

Guadalupe Vidales was born in Guanajuato, Mexico.

Growing up, Guadalupe was surrounded by the creative support of those around her. Her house included a carpentry workshop where she would watch her father work. While in school, her teacher encouraged her to explore the arts, especially clay and stone pottery, an interest that she took home with her.

After graduating from high school, Guadalupe chose to not attend college due to a requirement to serve in the military; instead, she continued her creative passion and opened a clothing store in Mexico, a choice that she has said she would repeat without question as she considered it one of the best decisions of her life.

While looking for clothes to buy for her store, Guadalupe met Senobio, the love of her life and future husband. They were

married on October 14, 1954m and eventually had three children: Patricia, David, and Robert.

After her children had grown up, Guadalupe retired from her store and moved to America, becoming a citizen in 1979. Since retirement, she has embraced her novellas and cooking for her children and grandchildren. When she gets a chance, Guadalupe loves to go back to her hometown and reflect back on all that she’s accomplished with her family. She can always be found looking for objects and gifts to give to strangers or to donate to someone in need, as she believes that supporting people can be done just by being involved.

Xanthia 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.

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.

JUNE 9, 1921

XANTHIA WARREN

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.

A brave woman, she flew with her husband, who got his private pilot’s license when he was 87.

Her fondest memory was attending President Barack Obama’s inaugural parade with her husband, which honored Tuskegee Airmen

Xanthia and James raised three sons, James, Stewart and Dwayne. 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.

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.

Along the way, they had eight children: Ralph, Mary, Dave, Gary, Herbert, Sharon, George and Alice.

One of the most exciting assignments for Leona was when her husband was stationed in Germany.

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.

In addition to her eight children, Leona also has 24 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren.

Leona 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.

“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 “ “

Eunice Hilton was born in Jamaica but moved to New York City at a young age, declaring that “We are New Yorkers”.

Her father was an attorney and eventually assistant attorney general to the White House but I was her grandmother, the fashion designer that she took after. After doing two years of law school and one year in business law, Eunice decided to venture into the business world. Eunice started a fashion salon on East Fifth Third st under the name of Cherise which

put her in contact with high profile customers, including having her gowns on the red carpet premiere of the movie Dr. Zhivago.

Eunice was introduced to her future husband through their parents, who had brought him over to her house to meet her and after one look decided “This one is mine”. In less than a year, they were married. Her husband was drafted to fight in World War II in communications, who was profiled in a PBS documentary about the first African-American’s in the war.

MARCH 1, 1922

EUNICE HILTON

In addition to a career in fashion, she considers herself to be a singer and a dancer, especially tap dancing. After moving to Solano, she still considers herself a New Yorker and feels blessed that she was able to accomplish everything she could.

Her secret to longevity is that she’s always eaten. Well, I mean, she, um. Probably most people would be upset is that she can eat her cake, candy cupcakes and ice cream; she never cut out anything. But she was always moving and dancing.

SEPTEMBER 3, 1922

PEARL JOE

Pearl Joe was born in Fargo, North Dakota, but her life was split between her time in the U.S. and China, where her family came from.

Pearl spent the first ten years of her life in North Dakota, but after her family had health problems, she moved to China to be with him and help him recover, where she remained for six years. While in China, she remembers having forgotten how to speak English, something she took to remembering.

What brought Pearl back to the U.S. was an arranged marriage with a family friend who lived in Mississippi in 1939 at the age of 16. Her new home was a small town, and despite being the only Chinese person, she felt a sense of community, the perfect place to raise her five children.

Her husband’s family owned a small grocery store, where they lived, and after he was drafted, Pearl took to running the store. They made the tough decision to prioritize their children and sold their grocery store and moved to

Los Angles where they could get a better education.

One of her greatest memories were road trips, whether it was cross-country or a few blocks to amusement parks. It was the time she spent with her family that was important to her, remarking that life is shaped by your thoughts and to be kind, generous, and thankful.

ROBERT KUZNICK

Robert Kuznick was born in Springfield, Illinois, born to immigrants from Yugoslavia and one of 13 children.

From a young age, Robert was a driven child, having a paper route around his neighborhood. With the extra income, Robert purchased a 1932 Chevrolet against his parents’ wishes, resulting in his first set of wheels at a friend’s house down the street until eventually convincing them to let him keep it at the age of 18.

The newspaper delivery route transitioned into working as a

telegraph messenger, delivering messages from the Illinois Statehouse for state employees.

Robert’s first date with his future wife was with her and her sister as they ventured to a casino in the small town of Taylorsville; that’s where they met and would spend as much time communicating.

With his future wife working as a registered nurse at a hospital run by nuns, they had an interesting means of communicating, with Robert tying items to a rope for her or finding a spare moment alone and talking through open

windows. After completing her work training, as a reward, the two got married in 1946.

After working as a messenger for years, Robert transitioned to working for a truck and tractor company where he started to grow a family, welcoming his first son. As the family expanded, they moved to California in 1952.

IN REMEMBRANCE

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure

DORELLE BERG GAYLON CALDWELL SERAPIO CORTES

ELDA ANNA DEHNBOSTEL

GERTA CARSCH

DOROTHY DAVINER

MAY DELANEY LOIS DITTMER

MILDRED HEALY

MANUEL SILVA

EURATEE DRAPER

ANGELINA MEREDITH

THEODORE A MERTZ

VIRGINIA NOORDYK

DOROTHY PENNYCOT

MURRAY SCHACHT

ANITA PARKER

ANNE RIGSBY

BERNICE SULLIVAN

MARGARET J WILLHART

ARTHUR WEIR

RETA WILLS

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE MEMBERS OF THE SOLANO COUNTY COMMUNITY FOR HELPING IN MAKING THIS EVENT POSSIBLE. FROM THE PEOPLE WHO HELPED SPREAD THE WORD AND RECOMMENDED CENTENARIANS, TO THE FAMILIES AND ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES THAT WORKED WITH US TO COLLECT PICTURES AND THE LIFE STORIES FOR OUR CENTENARIANS.

EACH OF YOU HAVE HELPED RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE RESIDENTS OF SOLANO COUNTY WHO HAVE REACHED THE STATUS OF CENTENARIAN