Celebrating eight centenarians

Transcona

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This article was published 25/09/2024 (404 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

There was cause for celebration at Park Manor Care Home recently — over 800, in fact.

On Sept. 18, Park Manor Care Home (301 Redonda St.) held a ceremony celebrating the birthdays of eight centenarian residents. Four of the residents — Lydia Oyler, Winnie Thompson, Marion “Rene” Gordon, and Anne Hingey — all turned 100 this year, while four others are over 100 years of age — Frances Rasmussen turned 101, Sarah “Sally” McDowell is 102, Eda Spuzak is 103, and Beatrice Wery celebrated her 108th birthday.

“Today is a happy day,” said Abednigo Mandalupa, Park Manor CEO, to kick off the celebrations. “Park Manor is not perfect, but we try our best to make this a good place to live. Let’s celebrate and be happy.”

Mandalupa praised the staff at Park Manor for their dedication and hard work in providing residents with top-notch care.

“I love it here,” said Rasmussen, who was joined by her niece and nephew.

When asked how she felt about the celebration, Rasmussen, who has been living at Park Manor for the past three years, said she felt “great joy, but sadness too,” in remembering those who have passed on before her.

“It’s pretty amazing,” said Mary-Ann Woroniak, whose mother Eda Spuzak has lived her entire 103 years in Transcona. “She just keeps on ticking. She’s not going anywhere.”

“It’s so special,” said Shirley Bird, daughter of centenarian Winnie Thompson. “To be able to come to events like this, it’s so much fun.”

“It’s special,” said Lydia Oyler’s son Bill. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event.”

Following remarks from staff, representatives of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, and Radisson MLA Jelynn Dela Cruz, on behalf of the province of Manitoba, a party was held for residents, family, and friends, including cake, refreshments, and more.