Ottery’s Susan Apolles celebrated her 99th birthday at the Lansdowne Moravian Church hall on Sunday August 27.
She gave birth to nine children of whom her first-born passed away on May 23 this year, according to her daughter Adolphine Balie. “Ouma has 27 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren (number 50 is already on the way) and one great-great-granddaughter. We salute our Queen, our Matriarch, a staunch Christian who has been a stalwart member of the Lansdowne community,” said Ms Balie.
Ouma, as she is fondly known, had been a teacher for most of her life and actively involved in the Women’s Association at church – now as an honorary member – as well as being an honorary member of the 50+ club in Ottery.
“Besides loving board games – dominoes, cards, Scrabble, Rummikub, Skyjo – you name it – Ouma sends WhatsApp messages on a daily basis to her many contacts.”
Ms Balie said Ms Apolles embarked on a new endeavour this year. “Although using a walker in the house and a wheelchair when going out, she has a personal trainer, Rachelle Linderoth. What a role-model for all of us. We love you, Mom,” said Ms Balie.
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