Lily Kirchmann Old Age Home was filled with much joy as Katharina Hayes, affectionately known as Lu, celebrated her 100th birthday on Friday October 5, surrounded by her happy family and residents of the home.
A string quartet serenaded the elderly citizens as they enjoyed their coffee and tea, while waiting for the celebrations to commence.
Hayes lived on a farm in Komani with her husband and children and her hobbies were gardening and knitting. She joined Lily Kirchmann in February 2010.
Service manager of the home, Carol Adams described Hayes as a wonderful person who was is always beautifully made up.
“I have never seen her look ill. Although there are times she will inevitably be sick due to her old age, she will never show it,” said Adams said.
Hayes was a music teacher and has two children, Cecilia Hayes, 65, and Greg Hayes, 62, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
“My mom was raised in the Western Cape, and studied in Stellenbosch.
“She met my dad LatenLayton Hayes, when she was still a student who was on holiday in Komani.
“She loved long walks, although the lifestyle between Stellenbosch and Komani was very different back then,” said Greg said.
“I would like to thank Lily Kirchmann for looking after our mother for the past few years.
“She has never complained to us about being ill-treated by the nurses or anything. We truly appreciate them,” he said.
