Ringwood’s Keith Rutledge to celebrate 100th birthday in lockdown on September 30
It’s a tough time to celebrate a magic milestone in lockdown — but this former World War II veteran and passionate Ringwood community contributor still plans to make the most of his 100th birthday. This is his story.
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He’ll only be able to wave to visitors from afar or take a video call — but Keith Rutledge still plans to make the most of reaching a magic milestone in lockdown.
Mr Rutledge will celebrate his 100th birthday on Wednesday, September 30 at Ringwood’s Blue Willows Aged Care.
The coronavirus outbreak has scuttled any potential big party plans with his family, based in Queensland, and other residents in the home.
But Mr Rutledge is content with receiving a card from Queen Elizabeth II and maybe a few pieces of cake.
“That’s all I need, you can’t do much more under the circumstances,” he said.
“It doesn’t worry me, I can’t do anything about it, it’s been like this for a while, and we get by.
“I never thought about it (the milestone), I just thought I’ll soon be 100, and I was surprised when I turned 99.”
Mr Rutledge has lived in Ringwood for nearly 70 years including four years at Blue Willows.
He began working at the former Sinclairs Grocery in Ringwood’s historic Blood Brothers building in 1952, after serving in the army during WWII.
He was also on founding committees for Ringwood Police and the Citizens Youth Club and assisted with Ringwood’s Neighbourhood Watch program.
Mr Rutledge was also a strong supporter of the Ringwood Women’s Amateur Athletics Club and is a life member of Heathmont Bowls Club.
“I just enjoyed being here, the fresh air, the people and the neighbours, and I enjoyed going to bowls and the local football,” he said of Ringwood.
Mr Rutledge said his tip for aspiring centenarians was to “live a quiet life”.
“I used to have a beer and I tried cigarettes but they didn’t suit me,” he said.
“Just keep plodding along and don’t overdo things.”
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