Welland woman celebrates 100th birthday
The secret to a long and happy life is keeping the people you love close, says Alma Gadreau, a resident at St. Charles Village who celebrated her 100th birthday Wednesday.
Joined by her two children, some of her eight grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, she said her relatives have always been her greatest priority.
“It’s very nice to be with my family — the best part of my life,” she said at her party hosted by staff at the retirement community in Welland.
A housewife and waitress in her earlier years, Gadreau grew up in eastern Quebec before spending time in Montreal and Halifax.
She moved to Welland about nine years ago and has lived at St. Charles Village for nearly five years.
“I’ve had a very happy life,” she said.
Her husband, Marc, died in 1995.
Being able to attend the centennial party was a joyous occasion for daughter Marcelle.
“It’s a such a privilege — a gift from God.”
Alma’s son Larry said he is constantly amazed about how spry and sharp his mother is.
“She gets around easily, uses her cane a little bit, but is able to go out and enjoy what she’s able to do,” he said.
“She’s a real trooper for her age.”
Alma is a familiar face at bingo games and exercise activities held at the home.
“She’s definitely a social butterfly,” she said.
In late May, St. Charles Village held a 100th birthday celebration for resident Ellen Carter, who was also in attendance on Wednesday.