The Road to 101 Years
Son, brother, husband, father, friend, veteran, and “student of the arts” are just a few titles that our client, Ken, has championed in his 101 years of life.
Born in 1920 and raised in North Minneapolis, some of Ken’s first memories are of him standing his ground while waiting in the breadline. As a kid, he says he didn’t know any better, but looking back as an adult he appreciates how much his parents tried to keep things normal for him; despite the hard times they were facing during the Great Depression.
Not long after the Great Depression reached its end, Ken began his next challenge – entering the Navy. On February 9, 1942, Ken boarded the U.S.S. Colorado and set sail - this date is one he forever remembers, however “the war, that is something I just try to forget,” he says. Perhaps his strength and resilience garnered throughout the Great Depression and World War II are what have allowed him to continue living his life to the fullest as he begins his 101st year.
In 1946, exactly 4 years from the day he set sail, Ken married the love of his life – a marriage that lasted for 58 years. He and his wife had two daughters, who are now both in their 70’s. He supported his family through his career as a sign painter for outdoor advertisements for Brady Incorporated. He happily shares that he owes his success to his mom and when asked what success means, Ken stated, “Success is doing what you like and are good at.” Based on the paintings he has adorning his apartment; we can confirm that Ken reached the ultimate level of success.
As the COVID-19 pandemic turned life upside down worldwide, Ken felt very confined – similar to what he imagines prison is like. So, to pass the time, Ken picked up his paintbrush, posted up at his easel, and painted the days away. In a world filled with uncertainty and constant change, Ken finds solace in what he does best, he paints. Most would say he is an artist, however Ken prefers to refer to himself as a “student of the arts.” Even at 101, he’s as humble as can be. And when he is not painting or serving up a slice of humble pie, you can find him baking lemon cloud pie, another of his beloved hobbies.
Ken is a role model, a hero, a world changer. He is filled with so much wisdom and has such a delightful outlook on life. If you take away three things from this resilient fellow, take them straight from Ken, “Attitude is the main thing – be positive, listen to your body, and treat yourself well.” And a shining example of positivity he is. Lynn H., Help At Your Door grocery driver, shared, “the first time I delivered to Ken he said, “You know I’m going to be 100 soon, but the best part about that is I get to start over, because next year I’ll be one!””
So Happy 101st (or 1st) Birthday Ken! We are lucky to know you