A happy Jack celebrates 100 yearsSteve Lillebuen
September 1, 2010 - 5:49PM
AAP War veteran Jack O'Neill has no secrets to longevity, just sage advice as he celebrates his 100th birthday.
"Just take life as it comes day by day," he says with a chuckle.
And stay active.
But take the time for a special treat here or there too.
Mr O'Neill tucked into a well-deserved double chocolate and cream cake on Wednesday for the big centurion birthday party.
Surrounded by family and friends in Southern Health's Kingston Centre in Melbourne, he shared laughs under a big black and gold birthday sign, the colours of his AFL club Richmond.
"I never thought I'd make it to this age, to be honest with you," he says before blowing out the cake's single candle.
Like most men his age during World War II, he says they were terrified they'd never come home so he took on the day-by-day philosophy.
He survived five years overseas in the conflict, found the love of his life, Rose, and started a family now complete with a daughter, Yvonne, now 70, three grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
The retired storeman was even treated with a surprise visit from former Tigers great Dale Weightman.
"He's nearly as old as the club so we had to come down and celebrate with him," the former Tiger said, presenting the birthday boy with a signed footy jumper and card.
Mr O'Neill said he didn't know how many more birthdays he had in him, but if his family history is any sign, he should save room for more cake.
His sister is 94 and their relatives have all lived well into their late 80s or 90s.
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/a-happy-jack-celebrates-100-years-20100901-14n8k.html
