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Colwood resident celebrates 100 years and all she has seen

A positive perspective is key to a long, happy life
100 birthday lady with Coun. Trace
Colwood Coun. Terry Trace shares a special moment with Bessie Ash at Ash’s 100th birthday on Feb. 24 at West Shore Lodge.

The key to longevity is to “take it one day at a time,” said Bessie Ash. And if anyone is qualified to share that opinion it’s Ash, who celebrated her 100th birthday on Feb. 24.

Long life is a family trait for the Ash family, noted her son, Reg. Ash’s mother was 107 when she past away, one of her sisters lived to the centennial mark as well, and both brothers persevered well into their 90s.

“Her mom had 11 kids and they moved from Saskatchewan to B.C. in a covered wagon,” Reg recalled at a celebration for his mother at the West Shore Lodge in Colwood last week. Reg said his mother made the decision to move there less than two years ago, after living independently in her condominium. “She said it was time, and everyone felt it was the right decision.”

Although Ash said her 100th birthday was just like any other day, she was impressed by a letter of congratulations from Colwood Mayor Carol Hamilton. Coun. Terry Trace, who presented the letter and a gift basket on behalf of Colwood Council, said she felt really honoured to take part in the celebration.

Ash also appreciated a huge birthday card the residents put together for her during an arts and crafts session.

Her son mentioned gardening, camping and fishing as a few of the pursuits his mother thoroughly enjoyed during her long and fruitful life.

When asked what she thought was the biggest change she had experienced in her life, Ash said it was the fast-paced life that people live nowadays. “People used to be content to stay at home,” she said. “Now everyone’s out all the time in a hurry and they don’t even look at each other.”

West Shore Lodge general manager Catherine Henderson said all of the residents and staff were thrilled to be able to celebrate Ash’s birthday with her. “She’s been a delight since the day she arrived, always happy, positive and enthusiastic. It’s a real pleasure to have her here,” Henderson added. “It seem the folks that make it to 100 all share a positive outlook towards life.”

reporter@goldstreamgazette.com