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Two Penticton women celebrate 103 years young

Find out the Village by the Station residents’ secrets for longevity
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Penticton residents Elma Oster and Dorothy Nicholson turned 103 years of age in November. Both were born in Saskatchewan. (Submitted)

Village by the Station in Penticton celebrated two incredible milestone birthdays in November for two of their wonderful residents. Elma Oster and Dorothy Nicholson both reached 103 years of age.

Both of these ladies are examples to all of us. They are energetic, willing to try new things and enjoying life, said staff at Village by the Station.

Elma Oster, was born on November 8, 1919 in Kincaid, Saskatchewan and grew up on a grain farm. She was the eldest of seven brothers and sisters. Elma moved to Ottawa to work at the naval headquarters where she met her husband Rodger. They had three children and moved to Penticton in 1944.

Elma worked at Eaton’s order office, the Cannery Packing house and a local restaurant. Elma is very active. She enjoys reading the newspaper, country music, playing bingo and other games, and spending time with her friends and family. When asked how she was able to reach 103 years, Elma said, “clean living is the way to go, no drinking, no smoking.” Elma has five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Dorothy Nicholson was born on November 13, 1919 in Kindersley, Saskatchewan. She moved to Vancouver working as a book keeper. Dorothy married Grant and have two children. The family moved to Penticton in 1955. Dorothy was named “the hockey mom” by her community. She would often shuttle others boys to and from practice. She has fond memories of travel; especially trips to Yuma in the winter time. Dorothy enjoys music and spending time with her friends and family. When asked how she reached 103 years, Dorothy said “it is important to have a lot of dear friends – to be loving and caring.’

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Monique Tamminga

About the Author: Monique Tamminga

Monique brings 20 years of award-winning journalism experience to the role of editor at the Penticton Western News. Of those years, 17 were spent working as a senior reporter and acting editor with the Langley Advance Times.
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