Happy 101st Birthday Marion!

For some, 101 is the new 61 and Marion is no exception.

As featured in the Rockland County Times

Marion celebrated her 101st birthday at a big celebration on September 13, 2016 at Northern Manor in Nanuet. Marion was joined by her granddaughter, Vanessa and her great grandson Cooper. Northern Manor jam-packed its recreation room with residents and staff all eager to join the celebration of Marion's long, healthy, and happy life. There was no limit to the entertainment, food and all around laughter and smiles.

Marion was born in Brooklyn in 1915, the year that the RMS Lusitania was sunk by a German U-boat killing 1,198, a turning point during World War I and grew up during the Great Depression. Until his death in 1988, Marion was married to Gene, a World War II Veteran who served in France and was one of the servicemen who liberated the last concentration camp. Gene was injured during the war and when he returned home, Marion quickly became the bread winner, working as a hair dresser in her basement.

“My grandmother was born a survivor,” explains Vanessa. “She actually also raised her siblings and she actually raised four generations of our family.”

The ultimate birthday cake, Marion pictures with Vanessa and Cooper.

Marion’s daughter (Vanessa’s mother) passed away at a very early age so Marion raised Vanessa through her life. More recently, Marion was driving until the age of 93 and lived on her own until she was 99. In 2015 when Marion, the year she hit the triple digits for the first time, Vanessa gave Marion a new present, the birth of Cooper. Cooper being born last year created a special century bond Cooper and Marion share.

Here's to many more for Marion!