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Wrench-Anthony celebrates 100th birthday
Christine Wrench-Anthony celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday, Sept. 12 in Kansas City, Kan. She was born in Mapleton on Sept. 12, 1915. As a single mother, she raised her family in Fort Scott and later moved to Lawrence in 1969. Christine later moved to Kansas City, Kan., in 1976 where she has continued to make her home.
Out of raising seven children, four are still living. They are, sons, Morris Wrench (wife Sandy) of Fort Scott, Edmond Wrench of Kansas City, Kan., and Mr. Kim R. Wrench (parter Kevin Overstreet) of Kansas City, Mo and daughter Winnie Wrench-Ayers of Kansas City, Kan. Her children now deceased are daughters Carol Teamer, Sherry Wrench-Williams and son Earl Dean Wrench.
On Saturday, Sept. 12, Christine enjoyed a small luncheon hosted in the home of her daughter, Winnie, along with siblings and other family members. After lunch, happy birthday was rendered by all and a beautiful homemade decorated cake by Kevin Overstreet was served.
Later that afternoon, the annual block party was being held in the neighborhood where Christine once lived, Country Side West in Kansas City, Kan., and they presented her with yet another beautiful cake. As a surprise, the Mayor of Kansas City, Kan., Mark Holland, sent a representative from the office with a proclamation given and read to her.
Christine also received birthday greetings from the White House signed by President Obama and his wife, Michelle. She also received many other cards and calls from around the world, from family members and friends. One of the gifts that overwhelmed her was when her doctor sent her an arrangement of 100 assorted roses that were truly breathtaking.
At the age of 100, Christine still loves to cook and bake for family holiday dinners. You will often times find her making beautiful handmade quilts and dolls. She is a sports fan and loves to watch KU basketball games and the Kansas City Chiefs football games. Her enthusiasm is more like someone who is 25-years old, rather than her age at 100. Her grace and beauty both inward and outward that she possesses continues to amaze those who know her.
People are always asking her what her secret is for looking so good and living this long. Through it all, for someone who has lived through the Depression, segregation and many wars, her wonderful attitude is something we could all learn from and maybe that is one of her secrets for a long life.
When asked about how it feels to turn 100, she smiled and said, "God has truly blessed me with many good things, and I will see you all next year," as she smiled and waved her hand in the air.
The truth is, we all have been blessed to have her today still in our lives.
--Submitted by Mr. Kim Wrench