Ecumen honors Elaine Altstatt, a resident of Ecumen Centennial House, who is 100.

By Peggy Lane, Activities Director, Ecumen Centennial House

Elaine Altstatt was born April 13, 1916, in Star Prairie, Wisc., where she grew up and lived her young adult life.  In 1942, she married her husband, Harold.  Following the wedding, they moved to St. Paul, Minn., where they raised their two sons, John and Steve.

Throughout her life, Elaine’s hobbies have included gardening (both vegetable and flower), sewing, and knitting scarves and mittens.  Elaine also loves to shop and go to the beauty salon to have her hair done weekly.  While her sons were growing up, she enjoyed being a Boy Scout Den Leader for ten years.

Throughout her life, Elaine has enjoyed traveling.  Her travels have included European countries as well as the Caribbean Islands.  Elaine was also a member of Hope Lutheran Church where she volunteered with the senior citizens group.

As a celebration of their marriage, Elaine’s husband would buy her a piece of diamond jewelry for every ten years of marriage.  On their 30^th anniversary, she received a diamond ring with emeralds surrounding the diamond.

Following Harold’s death, she continued to live an active and independent life.  Elaine’s secret to longevity is staying active and getting a breath of fresh air each day.  She also loves her independence.  She says, “I am living a great life!”

Elaine has been blessed with a wonderful family which includes her two sons, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.  One of her great-grandsons is a US Marine.

In honor of Elaine’s birthday, her son hosted a birthday party for her at Centennial House on April 2 with entertainment by “Rockin-Woody” – Elaine’s favorite.

Happy 100^th birthday, Elaine!  We are proud to welcome you to the Ecumen Century Club!