Stowmarket care home resident celebrates 100th birthday

A Stowmarket centenarian has shared her secret to living a long life. 

The team at Care UK’s Cedrus House, on Bittern Crescent, had a special celebration to mark resident Geertje Hart’s 100^th birthday with her family and friends.  

Born in Sint Philipsland, Holland, on 5^th September 1925, Geertje – known as Tingey – met her husband, Bob, during the liberation of Rotterdam, before moving to Bacton in 1946. They have three children – Wim, Hans and Ineke – as well as four grandchildren and four great grandchildren. 

She enjoyed a career in domestic service and alongside her working life, Tingey was an active member of the Salvation Army and Women’s Institute, both of which she is still involved with today. 

Always keen to embrace new hobbies and meet new people, Tingey enjoys spending time with her family in the coffee shop during their visits and going out for some fresh air in the garden.

Reflecting on her milestone, Tingey shared her secret to a long and happy life: “Love, compassion and a daily glass of sherry.” 

Deepa Reju, Home Manager at Cedrus House, said: “We love to celebrate life events here at Cedrus House, and a big milestone like Tingey’s certainly calls for a proper party! 

“It was wonderful to celebrate such an important birthday with Tingey – reaching 100 is an incredible achievement. 

“She is a much-loved member of our Cedrus House family, and it was lovely to see her enjoying her special day surrounded by those who care about her. Happy birthday, Tingey!” 

Cedrus House is a modern care home which provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema, café and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.