THUNDER BAY - There’s no magic formula for living a long and healthy life, but for one local resident, reaching the age of 107 just comes down to being a good person.
“I never swear, I just live a boring life,” said Hilda Hurst, who celebrated her 107th birthday at Hogarth Riverview Manor with family and friends on Saturday.
Hilda was born in 1912 in London, England and moved to Canada with her family when she was just 10-months old and has lived in Thunder Bay since.
Throughout her life, Hilda worked as a librarian in the city and became a well-known and well-liked member of the community.
“She is one of those people who’s never had a bad word to say about anybody and everybody loves her,” said Bill Hurst, Hilda’s son.
Hilda raised two children and now she has more than 30 great grandchildren.
To celebrate such a big milestone, her family planned a party at Hogarth Riverview Manor, complete with balloons and cake.
“The last big one we had was 100, so it’s been a while since she had a really big party and she really enjoys them,” Bill said.
Dennis Johnston, Hilda’s son-in-law, helped plan the party and he still plays cribbage with her every day.
Looking back on the day he was first introduced to Hilda, Dennis remembers her as being just as amazing then as she is now.
“She wanted you to be truthful or look out,” he said. “But she was fantastic.”
One of those celebrating Hilda’s big day was her good friend, Sis Angus, who herself will be turning 101 later this year.
“She is delightful. She is absolutely delightful,” Sis said. “She loves to have a good time, loves to enjoy everything.”
And maybe keeping that positive attitude is the key to longevity, that and taking care of yourself.
“I heard her once say that it was just good living,” Bill said. “Her mother insisted that she not get into anything bad. She’s really been a good person all of her life.”
“I am absolutely amazed at the way she is,” Sis added. “She is a real type to follow. She lived her life and enjoyed it and made the most of it. So the rest of us should do the same.
“I would say accept life as it comes. There are good things and bad things. Accept them and carry on. Don’t let them get you down.”
