Ferndown, Health & Lifestyle | Posted on April 2nd, 2025 | return to news
Ferndown care home resident celebrates 100th birthday
Tony, a former RAF flight mechanic, celebrated turning 100 with his extended family at Care South’s Fairlawn care home.
The three sons of a Ferndown care home resident pulled out all the stops to help their father celebrate his 100th birthday.
Tony, who lives at Care South’s Fairlawn, was joined by Christopher who had flown in from Denmark and Paul, who had travelled from Torquay. Tony spoke to his other son, Stephen, who lives in Sri Lanka, on Facetime.
Tony’s extended family also attended the celebration.
When asked what the secret is to turning 100, Tony said: “Just luck.”
At the start of Second World War, Tony was an RAF flight mechanic, travelling across Europe and eventually ending up in India, where he was demobbed. After leaving the forces, he worked as a draughtsman.
Tony then moved to Kenya to live with his father, which is where he met his first wife, Barbara.
Together they welcomed three sons before moving to Australia, where the family lived for 20 years.
He went on to meet his second wife, Rosie, who already had three daughters. Tony retired in Australia in his 50s.
His son, Christopher, said: “Growing up, he was always a patient and gentle dad to my brothers and I, and then supported his second wife Rosie’s three daughters. When I think about what the secret to him reaching 100, he’s always enjoyed full-fat cream and butter, and he gave up smoking and alcohol around 20 or 30 years ago.”
Tina Vincent, home manager said: “It was wonderful to see Tony surrounded by his family for his 100th birthday. He appreciates everything we do to provide care and support to him at the home, so we were keen to make an extra special effort on his birthday.”
Please share post:
LATEST NEWS:
CHARITY OF THE YEAR 2025
Subscribe to the online magazine news letter
