Abel at 100

2013-08-01 07:37:39

Abel Brown has seen it all. He's lived through multiple wars, presidents and remembers when you could buy a gallon of gas for mere cents on the dollar.

Last week he became the latest centurion. But don't let his age fool you. He still drives a car regularly and walks with no assistance.

Born in New York City and raised in New Jersey, Brown made his way to California after being drafted into the Army signal corps during WWII. After moving to the area, he decided to bring out his parents and a girlfriend – who would remain with him for the next 56 years.

Brown held a number of jobs after getting out of the military. He did some administrative work for several companies and became interested in the stock market and investing.

He never married or had children, something Brown says he's perfectly fine with.

Now living in a senior housing community in Placentia, he says he's glad he's able to be fully functional at his tender age.

Leasing manager Sherri Childers says Brown at 100 has more energy than most younger people.

Brown talked about his vitality and reflected on his life.

Q. What's you biggest accomplishment?

A. I really don't know. I don't think I've accomplished that much. I'm just glad to be alive. That's my biggest accomplishment. I just read a lot. That keeps me busy.

Q. How have you managed to stay so vibrant all these years?

A. A. We have people who walk with a cane, a walker and are pushed around in a wheelchair. Well I'm blessed I'm still walking on my own. I don't need anything. How many seniors are living alone or how many are living with their family or daughter? I just live my life.

Q. Is there anything that you're thankful for?

A. I'm just thankful that I'm still alive. I still drive. I came into the DMV at 70 and passed, I came in 73, 83, 88 and 93 and passed. I've just been lucky to live this long. I'm thankful for that everyday.

Q. Is there anything that you wanted to do that you never got a chance to?

A. What's happened in the past is done. To me, you have to sacrifice sometimes and I think I've paid my dues and I'm blessed to be here. We have 200 people in these apartments. All these people getting into their 90's have Alzheimer's, and I'm blessed I have my memory.

Q. Is there any memorable moment that stands out?

A. Not particularly. Everyday is important and I'm glad to be alive. There's been so many, I can't decided on just one.

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