In Toronto, 110-year-old resident Marie Rosa has witnessed and lived through major historical events spanning over a century, including both World Wars, the Great Depression, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, while also having seen the turnover of 17 Canadian prime ministers.
According to CTV, a celebration was held recently at her retirement home to officially declare her as the oldest living person in Canada.
The event was attended by not only friends and family but also several dignitaries who participated in a symbolic passing of a royal crown to Marie, transferring the honor from the previous record holder, Burdett “Burd” Sisler, who passed away in April at the age of 110.
Marie was born on September 17, 1915, at a time when Canadian women did not yet have the right to vote.
During World War II, she worked as a seamstress and supervisor, and the hardships of the Great Depression in her younger years instilled in her a lifelong habit of frugality and avoiding wastefulness.
Her daughter, Kathy Sinisalo, shared that her mother always emphasized not wasting anything, even going to the extent of scraping the last bit of butter off the wrapping paper before disposing of it.
Though Marie speaks very little now, when reminiscing about her favorite things from her youth, she still lights up with a radiant smile.
Apart from her love for traveling, she has always had a passion for fashion. Even at 110 years old, she takes great care in dressing up and styling her hair for important occasions, hoping to present herself in the best possible way.
To her family, the spiritual wealth she leaves behind is more precious than her longevity.
At 71, Kathy admitted feeling deeply saddened as she watches her mother age and gradually slip away, cherishing every moment with her. However, when asked if she had conveyed everything she wanted to say to her mother, she smiled and replied, “I think I have said it all.”
Upon hearing her daughter’s response, Marie gently nodded, responding with a loving gaze.
Today, Marie is surrounded by a large, multi-generational family. Her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren stand by her side, cherishing the moments they spend together.
So, what is the secret to her longevity at 110 years old?
Without hesitation, Kathy stated that the most frequently repeated phrase by her mother throughout her life was, “Love everyone. Everyone is precious. When you love others, they will love you back.”
This kind of love is destined to endure forever.