Elderly Saskatchewan resident, age 104, insists on presenting ID to authenticate her age to doubters

In the heart of Saskatoon, a remarkable woman named Rachel Ironside is celebrating her 104th birthday. On Monday, friends and family gathered to honour this incredible milestone.

Born in 1921, Rachel grew up on a farm in Ontario, a time when cars, electricity, telephones, TV, and radios were still novelties. Despite these humble beginnings, Rachel has lived a life that spans a period of significant world changes.

Rachel is the second oldest of 14 siblings, most of whom have lived well into their 90s. Her daughter, Joan Silbernagel, describes her mother as kind and warm, a testament to the positive impact Rachel has had on those around her.

Rachel's positive outlook is considered her biggest strength. She starts every day with peanut butter and jelly on white, untoasted bread, a simple pleasure she attributes to her long life. Her daughter Joan shares that Rachel makes friends wherever she goes, a trait that reassured Joan when she moved her mother to her current care home.

Rachel's family is vast, with 17 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, 10 great great-grandkids, and two great great great-grandchildren. Her youngest brother, Terry Hyatt, travelled from Ontario for the birthday celebration. Terry described Rachel as an amazing and special sister.

Rachel's neighbour, Tillie Reach, shares a close relationship with her. They are big Edmonton Oiler fans, never missing a game. Rachel's close friend lives with her at Oliver Place, making the celebration all the more special.

As Rachel turns 104, she finds it challenging to convince others of her age. To prove her age to skeptics, Rachel carries her birth certificate in her purse. Despite this, Rachel maintains a youthful spirit, a testament to her remarkable resilience.

Rachel's life is a testament to the power of kindness, warmth, and a positive outlook. As we celebrate her 104th birthday, we are reminded of the importance of cherishing every moment and maintaining a spirit of gratitude and optimism.

Elderly Saskatchewan resident, age 104, insists on presenting ID to authenticate her age to doubters