Local WWII veteran celebrates his 100th birthday
Anna Maria of Aurora resident Gilbert Rieger, a proud World War II veteran who served in the U.S. Air Force, reached an incredible milestone this Monday—his 100th birthday.
To honor the occasion, his friends, family and fellow veterans gathered for a surprise party, paying tribute to a man who has lived a life full of resilience, service and joy.
His daughter, Phillis Pittman, expressed her gratitude and admiration for her father, who she says has been a constant presence in the lives of his seven grandchildren—six girls and one boy.
“He’s been able to be around them, enjoy them. He’s enjoyed life,” Phillis said during the celebration, her pride for her father clear.
The party wasn’t just about cake and well-wishes. Rieger received a special nod from Aurora’s mayor, honoring him for his military service and thanking him for being an outstanding member of the community.
Throughout the day, it was clear that Rieger’s life has been one defined by kindness, strength and the ability to appreciate the little things.
As his daughter pointed out, he’s been counting down the days to his 100th birthday for quite some time.
What’s the secret to living such a fulfilling century? According to his daughter, Rieger’s approach to life can be distilled into two simple rules: “Be a good person and be kind to people.”
She added that he also enjoyed a Manhattan cocktail every day—though, unfortunately, the doctor has put a stop to that tradition.
As Gilbert celebrates his 100th birthday, his life story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring those who have given so much. His legacy of service, resilience and kindness continues to inspire all who know him.
Happy Birthday, Gilbert, and thank you for your service!
What is going on at Kensington at Anna Maria?
As some of you may have already noticed, construction has begun at the Kensington Building. Kensington was added to The Campus of Anna Maria in 1990. This year many great updates have taken place inside and now an addition.
In order to meet the growing demand by seniors for our Campus and specifically private rooms, we are adding 6 private rooms to the end of the Northwest/Rehab unit. We are keeping our capacity at Kensington to 99 residents, but will be transitioning 6 semi-private rooms on the East/West Unit to large private rooms. So in net, we will have added 12 private rooms to Kensington as a result of this project. This project will take approximately 6 months and will also include an expansion of our retention pond that sits behind the Kensington building. This project should have minimal impact on the day to day operations at Kensington.
Anna Maria of Aurora lauded at 60th Anniversary celebration
Published April 18, 2024 in Chagrin Valley Times/ Geauga Times Courier
Introducing Hula, Anna Maria’s newest Therapy Dog
Meet the newest addition to our family, Hula! Hula will be in training for the next year to become Anna Maria’s newest Therapy Dog. For those of you that remember our dear Bowie, she is his niece (her father is Bowie’s brother). She’s off to a wonderful start having made so many friends in the three weeks she’s been here. Whether she’s visiting with staff or residents she’s sure to put a smile on their faces. Call Lisa the AL/IL Activity Director at ext. 234 if you or a family member would like a visit from Hula!
Jo Perko, RN Receives Person of the Year Award at Chagrin Valley Chamber
At the Chagrin Valley Chamber annual awards dinner, long-time staff member Jo Perko, RN received the chamber’s Person of the Year Award.
Way to go, Jo!! Jo has served in many different roles at Anna Maria. Currently she is involved with marketing and admissions to assisted living.
In picture, left to right: Sharon Baker, Chris Norton, Jo Perko, Aaron Baker, Evan Webster
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