Two Hills Centenarian Anne Iftody Celebrates in Style

Two Hills Centenarian Anne Iftody Celebrates in Style

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

There are parties. And then there are parties. And this was the party of the century for Anne Iftody who celebrated her 100th birthday outside the main entrance of Hillside Lodge in Two Hills on May 22.

Family, friends and members of the coffee ladies were in attendance to wish the beloved lady a happy 100th birthday. Members of the coffee ladies also hosted a drive by parade for Anne, who was clearly delighted and moved by the gesture as she smiled and waved to her special guests.

MaryAnne Zaparniuk said that Anne has been a part of the coffee ladies for many years, a group that met every Saturday at 2 pm. They first met at the Tea House, and then the Burger Place, and finally, at Two Hills Pizza & Wings Restaurant.

“I remember the day Anne invited me to join the group. I got to know Anne as the wonderful person that she is. When she arrived at coffee time each week it was like the sun entered the room. Her smiling face and optimism was like a ray of sunshine.

We all loved to hear her stories of the experiences in her life. She always added humour to every story. Anne always looked on the bright side of everything and I hardly ever remember her being negative of someone or something. On the rare occasion that she did it was always with a sense of humour.

Anne’s face lights up as members of the coffee ladies drive by in their vehicles during the parade.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Coffee on Saturdays was never the same since Anne moved to the lodge. Our coffee group sure missed her, but there was Sunday brunch and many functions at the lodge where we had wonderful visits with her.

This all ended when COVID-19 happened. So, for her 100th birthday we decided to have a drive by to show her how much she is loved and that we sure miss her company. On behalf of all her coffee friends throughout the years we wish her more health and happiness.”

A long-time coffee friend Stella Stefiuk says, “Anne has always been a wonderful person and a very good friend.”

Centenarian Anne Iftody is surrounded by family members.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Great Great Niece Jade Johnson said Anne is the “heart of everything” and describes her as a “great trooper” and remembers one valuable piece of advice Anne gave her. She said, “Don’t let boys ever break your heart break their heart.”

Niece Cheryl Olinyk-Semeniuk commented that Anne is a very “determined” lady and has always admired that trait and many others the family matriarch possesses.

Anne said the turnout for her birthday was just amazing and was clearly touched by the outpouring of love and support from family members and friends as she wiped away a few tears of joy periodically throughout the party.

As far as advice, Anne said, “Just live from one day to another and be happy. And don’t complain, it doesn’t help. Just be grateful that you’ve got another day. I get up in the morning and I thank God and say, Oh, I’ve got another day. I’ve got another day. And that’s what keeps you going.

I also think there’s somebody much worse off than I am. So, you should be happy with what you’ve got.”