Mrs Roennfeldt celebrates centenarian milestone
On 1 July, Resthaven Craigmore resident, Mrs Ivy Roennfeldt, will celebrate her centenarian milestone with friends and family at the Southern Hotel in Gawler, with 100 years of memories to look back on.
Born and raised on the family farm near Jindera, New South Wales, Mrs Roennfeldt had a busy start to life.
Daughter, Eleanor, says, ‘Mum grew up with a tennis court on the property, and became quite good at playing tennis.’
‘The whole family were musically inclined, and mum enjoyed playing the organ and conducting the choir at their local church.’
‘Mum is also a great pianist, and completed formal studies through Trinity College in London to teach piano at all levels, which has served her well throughout her life.’
Mrs Roennfeldt soon met her future husband, Reverend Dr Victor Roennfeldt, through her younger brother.
The young couple married on 2 June 1948, at Bethel Lutheran Church, located on a rural property nearby.
‘After David was born, they left Australia by boat for Chicago, America, for dad to study his masters and Doctor of Theology. During that time, Robert was born.’
After five years, the family of four returned to Australia, settling in Murtoa, Victoria, where they completed their family with Peter, Eleanor, and Pauline.
Eleanor says, ‘Mum was a royalist, and in 1963, she accompanied dad to a state reception for the Queen’s visit to Melbourne in 1963—a true highlight that mum looks back on with pride.’
‘They were heavily involved in the community in all aspects, before moving to Bordertown, South Australia, in 1972.’
After 16 years in Bordertown, they had planned to retire and live in Murray Bridge.
‘Unfortunately, dad passed away, but mum continued with their plans, and was happy there for quite a few years.’
‘After dad passed, mum immersed herself in various hobbies; excelling in floral art—including exhibitions—continuing to teach piano, playing the organ and leading choir singing at church, and she also returned to riding her bike and playing tennis.’
Now, Mrs Roennfeldt resides at Resthaven Craigmore, where she enjoys playing Scrabble and Skip-Bo with her family who live nearby.
On reaching her centenarian milestone, Mrs Roennfeldt shares, ‘Whatever you do in life, do it well, and practice what you enjoy.’
Wise words indeed.
Many happy returns, Mrs Roennfeldt!