Early last month, I was getting ready to write my cousin to double check her mother-in-law’s February birthdate. Before I sent my inquiry, an email came letting me know of this senior matriarch’s passing, roughly three weeks before her 105th
birthday.

What a ride I thought and said, as did my cousins in their communication. By stature, Edith was a little spit of a person, feisty and full of fun, vim ’n vigor. She, along with several other family matriarchs and that of another close friend all born in 1912, reached 90 around the same year.

I always enjoyed remembering Edith’s special birthday celebrations. With this Hoosier family’s love of the Indy 500, complete with decades of having reserved seats, they faithfully attended this Memorial Day event year after year.

When Edith reached 96, her family gave her a 180 mph ride around the Indianapolis Speedway track with Arie Luyendyk, Jr. In
celebration of her 102nd birthday, this time Mario Andretti took the wheel. Did she receive a carton of milk at the finish line – you bet! Pictures show her cheering following these fast experiences while dressed in race car driver attire.
Always thinking about another adventure, she chose parasailing with two of her grandson’s when she reached 100. There between these two young fellows sat Edith holding on and boasting a big smile.

We’re encouraged to live life to the fullest never knowing how long we’re fortunate to have. While many others we may know would have done just that, I’d say Edith packed in as much as possible into that little frame during her lifetime. Her family noted her favorite quote which holds a good message for us too: “Old age occurs the moment you realize there isn’t something wonderful to happen just around the corner. In some people, this occurs very soon; in others, not at all.”

Thanks, Edith, for the life lessons you showed us! Perhaps we too can embody some of that great spirit, while rejoicing in all life has to offer.