Ruth Ekstrom has nearly reached the century mark, and she will be celebrating her 100th birthday with a party this Sunday, Dec. 21, at Wolf Memorial Good Samaritan Center.
Mrs. Ekstrom was born Dec. 24, 1908 in Albion, and has witnessed much of the history of the area in that time.
She was one of nine children.
Her family moved to a farm when she was two years old, and she attended rural schools through the eighth grade. She then attended Albion High School and graduated in 1927.
She took a music course for several years and became an accomplished pianist. She was a piano teacher for many years and still plays the piano “when called on.” She has played at both Zion Lutheran Church and Wolf Home.
Ruth married a farmer, David Ekstrom, and helped with the farm work for many years. Later on, she attended Wayne State College and earned her teaching degree in 1969.
She began teaching in rural schools after her own children reached school age and taught for 11 years.
Ruth and David had three children. Her daughter, Geraldine Porter, and son, Russell, are deceased. Her son, Milton, lives in Albion. She has eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren.
Ruth stated she is well satisfied with her life, and looks forward to seeing family and friends when she celebrates 100 years.
