Oldest person dies aged 111
One of the oldest people in New Zealand has died aged 111.
Madeline Anderson – who celebrated her birthday on May 4 and was considered by many to be the oldest living New Zealander – lived through some of history’s darkest days and saw every aspect of her daily life transform dramatically.
She died yesterday, surrounded by her family.
Anderson’s Polish parents, Franciszka and August Orlowski, arrived in Port Chalmers, Dunedin, in December 1872. Anderson, the eldest of four sisters, was born on the city’s famous Baldwin St in 1907.
Before her death she lived in Masterton with her daughter Heather List and her husband Robin List.
List said Anderson was the best mother ‘‘anyone could ask for’’.
‘‘She was just always there and always loving.’’
Anderson lived through some of history’s most momentous events, she said.
‘‘She wasn’t really affected by the world wars, but the Great Depression really did affect her.’’
The Depression meant Anderson could not afford to marry the man she was engaged to at the time and the relationship just ‘‘fizzled’’ out.
Tragic events in Anderson’s life left a lasting impression. Her son Brian died while riding a bicycle when he was seven years old. Her foster son Graeme then died in a car accident, aged 20.
‘‘Both deaths were absolutely tragic,’’ List said.
Another major moment in Anderson’s life came when she fell off a horse-drawn carriage when she was about 12 years old, she said.
She was seriously injured and required jaw reconstruction surgery.
List said people would often ask Anderson what her longevity secret was.
‘‘She used to tell people to eat their vegetables, but I know she always loved cakes and biscuits.
‘‘Her secret was that she was just a loving person and not in a gushy way. She was always considerate and treated everyone with affection and respect.’’
List attributed her mother’s longevity to being surrounded by people who loved and cared for her.
A ceremony to celebrate Anderson’s life will be held in Upper Hutt today.