One hundred years.
That’s more than 36,500 days; more than 876,000 hours and more than 52 million minutes.
That’s a life well-lived.
Jean Dreany hit that very special milestone April 22 and became Westlock’s latest resident to hit the century mark.
She was joined by her family at Pembina Lodge that day, for a celebration among her friends, complete with a giant cake worthy of a 100-year birthday party.
“We just had a good life. The kids are all good and we’ve had some good times together,” said Dreany.
Born in Buffalo Gap, South Dakota, Dreany found her way to Rochfort Bridge, near Mayerthorpe, where she spent five years farming and met her husband, who worked on the railroad.
They married and had four children, all of whom joined her for lunch, travelling from as far away as Ottawa.
Hard work and family values have always been important to Dreany, as is always staying active.
She said she starts every day with a cup of tea. Asked if that was a secret to her long life, she said she wasn’t sure.
“Just have fun, I guess,” she said.
Dreany pointed out she’s not even the oldest in her family either. Her father lived to be 103 and she has a sister who is 104, so good genes are probably a part her longevity.
