Celebrating Legacies 100 Years in the Making

On June 4th, Lupton Hall came alive for one of Perley Health's most anticipated and exclusive events of the year- the 8th Annual Century Club. This year, twenty remarkable residents (including 12 Veterans) were honoured by Perley staff, special guests, volunteers, and loved ones as they rang in their 100th birthdays in style.

Hosted by the Ozerdinc Grimes Family Therapeutic Recreation and Creative Arts Program (with emcee extraordinaire, Rachel Dobson, Recreation Therapist), the event was a touching tribute to the aging with purpose. Residents arrived via Perley's “purple carpet” and were welcomed with corsages and boutonnieres before sitting with their invited guests to enjoy an afternoon of music, joy, and cake.

The event was especially meaningful this year as special guest speaker Dr. Andrew Burtch, Historian (Post-1945), the Canadian War Museum, joined in the festivities to take us on a journey through Canada's last 100 years through the eyes of Greatest Generation.

Following Dr. Burtch's address, each of the 20 honorees (the eldest turning 106!) were presented with personalized Century Club certificates and commemoration pins from Perley Health CEO Akos Hoffer, and COO Mary Boutette.

“While living 100 years and beyond is certainly noteworthy, what's even more impressive is the contributions that you and your generation have made to Ottawa, to Ontario and to Canada,” said Akos. “Most of you raised families, worked at careers and helped shape our modern world. Your presence here today is an inspiration to us all.”

Upon distribution of the final certificate, the room serenaded the centenarians with a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday" and treated them to cake, coffee, and tea. While refreshments were served, Perley Musician, Daniel Campoli, regaled the room with a musical journey through the decades.

Special thank you to our guest, Dr. Burtch, for his remarks, and to staff and volunteers for their hard work in bringing this special event to life. It is thanks to you that the Perley Health Century Club is more than just a birthday celebration, but also a fitting tribute to the beauty of a life well lived.

Here's to our Centenarians!

In the News

• June 4, 2025 - CTV News - The ‘Century Club' at Perley Health has 20 members (Article and Video)
• June 5, 2025 -  Global News (Video)
• June 5, 2025 - Ottawa Citizen - These Second World War veterans deserve honour and thanks

Perley Health's 8th annual Century Club celebrated 20 residents, all 100 years old or older. Pictured: Perley Health Veteran Resident, Lu Lane.