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Veteran Celebrates 100th Year
By Natalie Mahn on Sep 8, 2021 in Senior Living
It’s not every day one celebrates their 100th birthday. For Pacifica Senior Living resident Theodore Albertus Mertz, a World War II veteran, his 100th year was commemorated in style.
Pacifica Senior Living is a dynamic organization with communities across the U.S. Utilizing Yardi solutions in senior living since 2009, Pacifica provides personalized care services in independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, namaste therapy hospice and more.
Pacifica honored Theodore with a 100-year birthday celebration at their Vacaville community.
Best of all, the celebration is highlighted in this summer edition of Vacaville Magazine. The feature covers Theodore’s life story, his honorable war service and the Pacifica-led birthday extravaganza. We’re pleased to share a highlight here on The Balance Sheet.
Pacifica honors veteran resident
In early June, Theodore was honored with a gathering of local citizens, the Vacaville Fire Department, Travis Air Force Base and more. Over 200 vehicles passed by Pacifica Vacaville in commemoration of Theodore’s 100th birthday — and war service. Visitors also showed their appreciation with special gifts and heartfelt tributes.
“We are so proud that this inspiring World War II Veteran and Centenarian is part of our community,” shared Pacifica on LinkedIn.
The special gathering was made possible by Pacifica Community Relations Director Rosa Gracida, who noted Theodore’s upcoming birthday when he became a resident. She crafted the idea for a 100-car parade to memorialize his 100 years and to no surprise, local agencies were honored to join.
“This is a milestone,” said Gracida in Vacaville Magazine. “I just feel so blessed — this is part of our story, our freedom. My heart just feels so full. He deserves all the respect.”
Theodore’s Navy career began in 1941 where he was stationed in the Philippines. From inspecting and repairing aircraft’s mechanical systems to working as a spotter, Theodore’s commendable service was expansive. He left the military in 1945 but stayed in the Philippines where he met his wife, Claire. The two went on to start a family that would grow for years to come.
Despite losing his wife to diabetes in 2005 and now living with dementia himself, Theodore is described by those closest to him as an easy going, happy person. He contributes his longevity to his positive attitude, which he’ll surely uphold in his 101st year at Pacifica Vacaville.
Read the entire spread on Theodore’s 100-year celebration and World War II service, covered on pages 12-14. To explore how Yardi supports senior living organizations like Pacifica, get in touch!
