Visitors came from as far as Smithers and Edmonton this month to help a longtime Langford resident ring in her second century on the planet.
Eleanor Dmytriw, known affectionately as “Ellie” to her friends, was celebrated on her 100th birthday on Sept. 6 with a gathering at the Royal Canadian Legion’s branch 91.
Roughly 50 people joined the Sunday night party for the avid bridge player, who still heads out weekly to play the game she loves.
For years Dmytriw joined fellow aficianados for bridge games at the Royal Colwood Golf Club. It was only fitting that the Legion was decorated with playing cards during the party.
Ellie’s only child, retired Victoria police officer Don Milton of Sooke, was part of a special birthday chorus at the evening festivities. He’s part of the Greater Victoria Police Chorus, some members of which gathered to sing Happy Birthday.
Among those on hand for the celebration was Dmytriw’s longtime friend, Hector Brassard, who travelled all the way from Smithers to wish her well.
After moving to Langford from Edmonton 45 years ago, Ellie and her late husband lived on Florence Lake Road for many years.
More recently she moved in to the Alexander Mackie Lodge on Station Avenue, next door to the Legion.
Staff and fellow residents at the Mackie Lodge celebrated Dmytriw’s big day with a luncheon earlier in the day.
While she just has one son (and a daughter-in-law, Irene), Ellie is blessed with three grandchildren, Vern, Tara (Yves), Bruce (Dawn), six great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
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