Between annual New Year’s resolutions and bucket lists, everyone hopes to live a long and happy life. To achieve both would be the ultimate accomplishment.
Mildred Spencer, a resident at Rittenhouse Village, has done just that! Born on February 24, 1918, Spencer turn 100 years old this Saturday. Spencer has been a life-long Hoosier, growing up on a farm in Middlebury, Indiana and moving to Valparaiso at the age of 13. Now she celebrates her 100th birthday at her home in Portage.
When asked about how it feels to have been living for a century, Spencer replied, “It’s just another day. I never thought about living this long. Longevity runs on both sides of my family.”
Many people can only dream of living so long. With the lifespan for Americans averaging around 78 years, living an additional two decades can seem out of reach. A look at Spencer’s character, however, reminds us that the best lives are not measured by how long someone lives, but by how they live during that time.
Since moving to Rittenhouse Villages at Portage in 2016, Spencer has continued to lead a life devoted to making others happy. With a strong knack for the piano, Spencer uses her talents to captivate residents with music each and every morning.
The songs that she plays aim to give her neighbors a way to cherish their beloved past as well as their faith.
“I play so that the residents can hear old hymns that are no longer played at churches,” Spencer explained.
Such a positive life in the community deserves a party of equal importance. Residents will gather during this Friday’s Happy Hour at Rittenhouse for Spencer’s birthday celebration complete with birthday cake and, of course, the traditional Happy Birthday song. This week also features a performance by the local band, The Keys, which is sure to make Spencer’s day even more special!
Kim Scott, Director of Activities at the residences, remarked on Spencer’s presence at Rittenhouse Villages.
“It’s a pleasure to have Spencer as a resident! She is in such great shape and a joy to know,” said Scott.
From her fellow residents and staff to her family and community, Spencer has spent the last century living a meaningful life dedicated to others. Like Spencer, we should all strive to live a life with so much awareness and appreciation that our 100th birthday is “just another day.”
Northwest Indiana residents who are researching senior residences to care for and celebrate with their loved ones like they do at Rittenhouse Villages at Portage, then click here to visit their website.