Minnie turns 100
JOBURG - The word 'sterling' means of a high standard, which makes it a fitting surname for a resident of Elphin Lodge Retirement Village who recently celebrated her 100th year of living to a high standard.
Minnie Sterling, who has been a resident of the Rand Aid Association’s retirement village for the past 15 years, turned 100 on 25 January.
Sterling was born in 1916 in Johannesburg, slap bang in the middle of the WWI. She spent her childhood in Harrismith with her parents and two brothers.
Sterling matriculated in 1933 and, six years later, married Louis. The couple lived in Brakpan for 17 years before moving to Klerksdorp in 1956 – her home for the next 44 years.
Minnie enjoyed a very busy life raising her children, working, playing tennis, bowls and bridge, attending International Toastmistress Club meetings and yoga classes.
She did yoga regularly until the age of 95 and she firmly believes that the benefits of yoga have contributed to her longevity.
Minnie has three daughters, six grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
In 1992, after 53 years of marriage, Minnie’s husband finally succumbed to a long illness. Eight years later, in 2000, Minnie wanted to live closer to her family and moved to Elphin Lodge where she still lives independently.
Her daughter Sandra said, “She has had 15 happy years here with wonderful neighbours and friends. My mom still plays bridge and attends art classes.”
Sandra said that Elphin Lodge is a very good place to stay and she appreciates all the good things that Helen Petrie, the complex manager of Elphin Lodge, and her team do for her mother and other residents.
Minnie is still very active and believes that good health and exercise are vital components of a well-managed life.
