KEITH Dawson celebrated his 104th birthday the way he wanted – with family, friends, cake and plenty of story telling.
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Keith was born on May 24, 1913, a Saturday. When he blew out the candles on his birthday cake, surrounded by Emmaus Nursing Home staff, friends, two of his three daughters, two son-in-laws and a grandson.
It marked day number 37,986 on earth and in that time, he has seen plenty.
A New Zealand native who has called the Mid North Coast home for the past 42 years, he drove his car up until 103 and participated in lawn bowls until the same age.
Keith proudly sported a “104 not out” hat. He wears it with the appropriate number each year – and has set his sights on 110. His younger sister is also in her 100s.
“I think 110 is a good number. My life will be done,” he said. “My wife’s ashes are waiting for me. And we are going to tour the world in the boat.”
He is often asked about his long life, and his happy marriage.
“The key to a long life is to always have plenty to do and do good if you can,” he said with a smile.
“Happiness (is the key to marriage). Smiling, laughing. You can see my daughters now. They laugh all the time.”
He was always active, swimming often and sailing the seas.
“I used my time doing things I wanted to do,” he said.
“I always grew vegetables and gave them away to locals. Give and take a bit, and enjoy doing it.”
He was not a carpenter by trade, but he always put his hand up for any handy work or renovations. He never charged people.
That in itself speaks volumes for the kind of person Keith is, and the values that he has lived by for the past 104 years.
Here is to at least another six, to reach the monumental 110 figure. Happy birthday, Keith.