Genetics and hard work has been offered as the possible reason for the longevity of Betty Haken of Victoria Point who celebrated her 100th year with family and friends on January 4.
Ms Haken is the second in her family to receive a letter from the Queen as her sister Jean lived to 101 years.
Living with her niece Sue Casben since 2016, Mrs Haken enjoys painting and has always loved to garden. Her favourite plants are azaleas and hydrangeas.
“It’s nice to see her enjoying her life. She’s always worked hard and never been a smoker or a drinker. She had chooks and her own garden growing up. I think healthy living and hard work contributes to a long life,” Ms Casben said.
Ms Haken was born in Lithgow, NSW and grew up in Sydney.
Her memories include watching the Sydney Harbour Bridge being built and opened in 1932.
She married in 1944 and raised two sons with her husband Ern. She has four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Ms Haken was widowed in 1967 and worked as a doctor’s receptionist until retirement.
