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Barron County Native Looks Back on 103 Years of Memories as Seen on WEAU

Posted 11/28/2018

Our resident, Emma Perry celebrated her 103 birthday at Grace Edgewood. WEAU came in to hear about her 103 trips around the sun. 

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) --
 A Barron County native celebrated 103 years of life today. But for Emma Perry, the celebration in Altoona Tuesday wasn't just about the balloons and cake, but reflecting on a century of memories.

She was born in 1915, and during her birthday celebration Tuesday afternoon, Emma Perry showed us, after 103 years, she hasn’t missed a beat.

“It is unbelievable,” says Perry. “I can remember so many birthdays, nice birthdays, and interesting birthdays.”

“That's what you have to do when you get this old, make the best of it,” adds Perry laughing.

With more than a century of memories, including both world wars and 18 U.S. presidents, the Barron County native reflects on a cycle of hardships.

“I've seen a lot, I've read a lot I've learned a lot,” says Perry. “Even though it was the hard times, the bad times. I can remember there were so many farmers that were losing their farms and that's what I read today.”

She also reflects on new beginnings for her family, like her grandparents, who emigrated from Germany.

“Picked up her family of 4 and came to America, just to the land of opportunity,” explains Perry.

Most of all, Emma Perry says looking back on 103 years, the most important thing you can do is be thankful.

“Be thankful, be thankful for everything. The lord has been good to me,” she says.


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Grace Lutheran Communities has been helping our friends and neighbors in communities all over the Chippewa Valley since 1960. The non-profit organization specializes in rehabilitation, assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care, child care, independent living, and adult day services.


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