It was a day to remember!

Ilene Hoiland, 琉璃神社鈥檚 newest Centenarian, was celebrated in style at Sandalwood Regency Retirement Resort on her 100th birthday, July 3.  Sandalwood administration and staff surprised Ilene at an afternoon birthday tea with a tiara, flowers and balloons that screamed, 'Fabulous at 100鈥�!

Ilene Harrison was born on July 3, 1924, on a farm in Perdue SK.  The family moved to Sunningdale in 1929.  At age 19, in 1943, she began teaching in a one-room country school south of Biggar SK, and then in Birch Hills, where she met and married serviceman, Irvin Hoiland in 1951.  Being in the military, the couple was stationed first in Germany where their son Paul was born, followed by Quebec, and then Calgary.  While living in Calgary, Ilene went back to teaching full-time until her retirement in 1986.  Following Irvin鈥檚 retirement, they moved to Chilliwack where he passed away in 2000.  Further moves brought her to Penticton and finally 琉璃神社 in 2008.

Well-known for her pragmatic outlook on life and speaking her mind, Ilene is much-admired for her amazing memory, quick responses, independence, and love of dressing with pizazz.  She especially enjoys people and is known as an excellent conversationalist.  Ilene stays involved in Sandalwood activities wherever possible, including having been an active participant in the Sandalwood art group.  She declares her coming to Sandalwood five years ago was the best move she has ever made. 

On Saturday, July 6, a come-and-go tea was held in her honour for friends, relatives, and Sandalwood residents.   People came long distances - from Saskatchewan, Alberta and B.C. - to hug and give their congratulations and best wishes to this special lady鈥�.. including a Grade 4 student from the mid-seventies, one of several who have kept in touch over the years.