Emma Mark celebrates 100 years with family and friends

Emma Mark celebrated her 100th birthday with family and friends surrounding her with hugs, kisses, and loving smiles of admiration.

Emma’s daughter-in-law Donna Mark spoke on behalf of the family about the “beautiful lady” she was proud to have as a second mother. “This lady is a beautiful lady we’ve had all our lives,” she said, adding: “She’s loved so very deeply.”

Extendicare Recreation Director Lorraine Warren-Nimeck bestowed a bouquet of flowers to Emma on behalf of everyone at Extendicare. The Town of Viking also gave a Certificate of Achievement to her for her achievements.

Music courtesy of guitarist Ray Lestus of Strome and fiddler Charlie Gargus of Mundare added some toe tapping old fashioned music for people to enjoy.

Emma was born on Sept. 1, 1918, 10 miles north of Lougheed. Her family included four siblings. In all, there were four girls and one boy born to parents Geoffry and Laura Johnson.

Emma went to normal school to become a teacher and taught school from 1939 until 1960. She met her future husband after taking a posting at an Irma area school, married Ralph Mark, and settled on a farm north of Irma where the couple raised two sons: Gerald (Gerry) and Lawrence (Larry).

They now also have three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Speaking of her mother-in-law, Donna said it was “a privilege to know her and call her Mom for the past 37 years. She always helped out both of our families during harvest or anytime we asked.

“This lovely lady blessed our lives now for 100 years and we are so happy to share this special milestone with her. We love you deeply Mom and wish you a very happy 100th birthday.”

Then cake and ice cream was served while everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to the guest of honour.

Originally published in the September 5, 2018 edition of The Weekly Review – Never miss an issue, become a Subscriber today! 

Patricia Harcourt
Editor