Batavia woman celebrates 100th birthday

Being a volunteer appears to have been good for Fern Anderson's health.

The Batavia woman has volunteered her services to Delnor Hospital, the Batavia Public Library, the Batavia Historical Society and other local groups, and was still delivering Meals on Wheels to other senior citizens at the ripe age of 93.

Surrounded by family and friends, Anderson celebrated her 100th birthday Sunday at her residence at Provena McAuley Manor in Aurora.

"She's always been a health nut," said her son Rockne Anderson, offering insight into his mother's longevity. "She always believed in vitamins."

Fern graduated from Batavia High School in 1925. A quarter of a century later, she earned her bachelor's degree and began a career in teaching in the Kaneville and St. Charles schools.

Fern's husband, Vic Anderson, died in 1984. In addition to son Rockne, she has a daughter Deronda, six grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Her other son, Garrick, died in 1949.

Friends and family describe Fern as an active, independent soul, unafraid to speak her mind.

"I just love Fern because she just said what she felt," said Patty Mugavero, who grew up in Batavia. "She's very feisty."

"She's a spunky lady," said Ellen Stone, a niece-in-law. "She loves sports. She used to go swimming down at the quarry."

Many of Fern's friends celebrating her birthday came from the Batavia Baptist Church, where Fern was an active member.

"Fern has an inquisitive mind and is always pursuing more knowledge," said fellow church member Lois Kraft of Batavia.

In 1999, Fern suffered a broken hip, but did not surrender to any major health deterioration.

"She said, 'that's not the end,'" Mugavero said. "She recovered with pure grit."