‘There is always joy to be found in life,’ says Mrs Ruth Ross, aged 100
On 22 February, Mrs Ruth Ross celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family in her home at Aldinga Beach.
Growing up on the eastern coast of the Yorke Peninsula in Ardrossan, Ruth has fond memories growing up with her three brothers and two sisters.
‘My father worked in the Moonta mines – he has his picture in the Moonta museum! My mother stayed at home to look after us kids, she was a lovely lady and a great mum – always did everything for everyone.’
In the early 1940s, Ruth left school and began working at Hendon Munition Factory as a factory worker during war times.
‘It was then that I met my first husband, Alick, who served in the war in Papua New Guinea. It wasn’t long before we got married.’
‘However, it wasn’t until the war had ended in 1944, that we had our children – Colleen, then Bronte.’
‘After his service with the Australian Army, Alick found employment as a Postal Manager for the PMG (Post Master General).’
‘We bought our first home in Semaphore, and lived a good life there for a while. We enjoyed many family vacations – Aldinga Beach was always a favourite. We went all over, thanks to Alick’s work benefits.’
‘Life with Alick was wonderful, but short. Were all devastated when he passed. We always did everything together, so it was an adjustment for the whole family.’
‘It was then that I found a lot of joy in hobbies. I was always very sporty, and so I got into hockey, and learned cake decorating – there is always joy to be found in life.’
During the 1970s, Ruth met Charlie Ross, who would become her second husband.
‘Charlie and I were married for 30 years – he was great with the children and he fit into our lives quite nicely.’
Looking back on her 100 years, Ruth reflects, ‘It is important to not take life so seriously. I was always easy-going, but you must care for those around you, and you will lead a happy life.’
Now, Ruth continues to live independently in her home at her favourite holiday destination, Aldinga Beach, receiving fortnightly shopping services from Resthaven Community Respite Services.
Many happy returns, Mrs Ross.