While many were waiting to hear about the first New Year’s baby born in their communities, those at Life Care Center of The Willows in Valparaiso, Ind., were celebrating the 100th birthday of resident Marjorie Gomoll on Jan. 1, 2013.
Gomoll celebrated a century of life surrounded by more than 35 of her closest friends and six of her beloved family members from near and far.
Gomoll said she could never have predicted how sweet the birthday would be, and how exciting as well.
“I think all this attention is making my pacemaker go faster,” she quipped.
When thrust into the spotlight with cake, candles, flowers and balloons, Gomoll smiled big with a tiny tear in her eye. As everyone finished singing “Happy Birthday” while a fellow resident played the piano, Gomoll said what she always says when she is at a loss for words, “Oh, fiddle-dee-dee.”
Florence Long, Gomoll’s sister-in-law, said she was amazed at what a wonderful life Gomoll has lived.
“I think she is a remarkable woman,” Long said. “She has been very happy here at The Willows, and one thing I love about her is that she hasn’t changed a bit. She has always been true to herself.”
Florence Nickovich, a fellow resident and a friend of Gomoll, shared, “She has been such a pleasure to know, and to have as a friend and neighbor. Everyone just loves Marjorie.”
During the party, associates greeted Gomoll with hugs and kisses and wished her a happy birthday.
“I just don’t know what I’d do without my girls,” Gomoll said of the nurses and aides who care for her.
Earlier in the month, when Gomoll was asked if she had any wisdom for those around her as she approached her 100th birthday, she didn’t hesitate to say: “Always look on the bright side of everyone you meet!”