Vegreville Celebrates new Centenarian, Mary Chorney

Vegreville Celebrates new Centenarian, Mary Chorney

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

To honor a beloved woman, Mary Chorney’s family and friends traveled from British Columbia, Calgary, Edmonton, and other towns in Alberta to celebrate Mary Chorney’s 100th Birthday on November 30 at Mary’s residence at Century Park in Vegreville.

Mary was born on December 2, 1919. So, she was officially 100 on December 2, 2019.

Mary and her husband had four children-Stan Chorney, Pat O-Shea, Sylvia Johnson while Betty, the other daughter has since passed away. Mary now has nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and two great, great grandchildren.

Mary’s son, Stan Chorney expressed in his brief speech that Mary is the strength and foundation of each of their families.

Mary’s daughter, Sylvia Johnson said her mother is the oldest girl of 14 children. So, she took care of babies and younger children all her life and was used to be being a hard worker. Mary mainly lived around the Two Hills/Vegreville area. “Her and my dad had a farm by Lavoy and they retired and moved to Vegreville in 1974. They are very well-known in Vegreville. I believe most people like mom as she is a very pleasant person.”

Mary’s daughter, Pat O-Shea described her mother as the sweetest person on earth. “Mom never complains.” Pat said.

Mary’s granddaughter, Desiree Chorney said Mary is unique because she has done so many things in her life on her own. “She would go to the store every day and buy everything she needs on her own. She was always independent. I think this is amazing,” Desiree said.

For this milestone, Mary received Certificates of Congratulations from the Premier of Alberta, the Prime Minister of Canada, Governor General of Canada, and Her Majesty the Queen.