April 25, 2014 (Hildebran, NC) ─ Hard work, lots of love and a little fun! That’s Ruth Nordwick’s secret to longevity. A resident of Cambridge House, a DePaul Senior Living Community, since 2005, Nordwick recently celebrated her 100th birthday.

“I’ve always strived to do my best while in school, working on the farms and working with animals,” said Nordwick. “All of that was possible due to the love and devotion of my small family.”

Born in Ohio, Ruth grew up with nine siblings. Her father was a farmer while her mother stayed home to care for the children. Ruth enjoyed 47 years of marriage with her “true love” Zeno Nordwick. Zeno passed away 11 years ago.

Ruth’s hobbies included riding horses, reading books and drawing. She raised and bred show horses and dogs, teaching dog obedience school in Greenville, Ohio. Two of her biggest accomplishments include winning a car for $.25 and receiving a letter from President Barack Obama congratulating her on turning 100 years old. For her birthday celebration, Ruth read her proclamation from the President and shared a chocolate cake donated by Food Lion in Hildebran for the occasion.

“Ruth has such a positive personality,” said Activities Director Cheri Hahn. “She’s a very smart and caring person who brings great joy to everyone at Cambridge House.”

Ruth is pictured above riding a horse and buggy in Burlington, Kentucky and celebrating her 100th birthday at Cambridge House. For more information about Cambridge House, please contact Administrator Judy Wrigley at (828) 325-4980.