This article will be published in the Oakmont News on August 8.
What is the secret to a long life? Medical experts often point to good nutrition, regular activity, strong relationships and a sense of purpose. But there may be no single formula, and Oakmont’s centenarians show that a full life can take many different forms.
At least twelve Oakmont residents have reached or surpassed their 100th birthdays. Their lives have included military service, meaningful careers, devoted families, lasting friendships and plenty of music, dancing, golf, hiking, volunteering and community involvement.
Here is a glimpse into the remarkable lives of some of Oakmont’s centenarians.
Wally Wortman, who turned 103 in June, moved to Oakmont with his late wife Audrey in 1987. A US Army veteran, Wally served in WWII from 1943-46. He still lives on his own with the help of two daughters, a son and their families, plus his niece who also lives in Oakmont. Wally has been an avid golf player, active in Branch 92 SIRS, and was a member of Cal Alumni, serving as president in 1993 and 1994.
Dee Johnson, who is 100 years old, has lived in Oakmont Village for 20 years. She now lives happily at Oakmont Gardens. For Dee, the biggest thrill she experienced was witnessing the birth of her youngest grandchild, who is now 46 years old.
Angela Saul, who recently turned 100, was raised in Italy before moving back to the US, and has lived in Oakmont since January 2006. She was a member of the original Italian Club, and she took many other classes at Oakmont’s facilities. Angela’s career included working at St. John Knits in Los Angeles, where she supervised a team creating high-end, Chanel-inspired knit suits and jackets. She credits her longevity to her caring family, friends, neighbors, and Catholic Charities.
Alicia Clay, who is 100 years old and now lives at Oakmont Gardens, is known for her high scores in Wii bowling (she recently got a 179) and is found at most bingo games.
Millie McKay, who is turning 103 in October, has lived in Oakmont for over 30 years. She has been a part of Star of the Valley’s Women’s Circle, and a member of the church committee with her late husband.
Ann Favila, who is 101 years old, is a very close friend of Millie’s. Ann moved to Oakmont in 2017 after losing her Kenwood home to the fires. Both she and Millie are members of the same book club.
Louise Donahue, who is 101 years old, has lived in Oakmont for 47 years. She and her late husband John were very active in the OVA community, and she’s loved by her church family at Star of the Valley Catholic Church.
Dale Blake, who is 102 years old, recently celebrated 60 years of marriage to his wife Nancy. 22 years ago, they moved from Alameda to Oakmont after Dale retired from a spice and food seasoning company. Dale also has three daughters.
Elaine Smith, who is 100 years old, moved to Oakmont more than 30 years ago with her late husband Frank. She was a wonderful tap dancer and gifted ballroom dancer, and she also played the banjo and clarinet. She loves to watch golf and girls college basketball, especially the University of Connecticut team, her hometown university.
Bud Anderson, who is 100 years old, has lived in Oakmont since 1991. He and his wife, Lou, were very involved with the Kenwood Community Church, and were also avid hikers. Bud was one of the originators of the annual car show in Oakmont, and an enthusiastic volunteer for his sub-HOA.
Stanley Siddle, who is 100 years old, moved to Oakmont Gardens in 2021. Before retiring and moving to the US, he worked for the British services in accounting in Ghana.
And almost ready to join our centenarians is Rachel Corso, who turns 100 this December and has lived in Oakmont for about 38 years. She enjoyed playing bocce ball, and she danced in an Oakmont group called The Happy Hoovers, and also with the line dancing group. She is a grandma, great grandma and great-great grandma.
Although their paths have been different, Oakmont’s centenarians share long lives shaped by family, friends, activities, and community. Their stories reflect not just years lived, but the experiences and relationships that have filled them.