106 years old, and a new high school graduate

A rare birthday celebration took place Tuesday at Friendship Village in Schaumburg.

Residents and guests jammed the atrium of its residential unit, Bridgewater Place, while others leaned over the upper floor balconies, just to get a look.

It's not every day they celebrate the birthday of a 106-year old resident, and one who eagerly talks into the microphone, and even makes jokes. But they would agree that Lottie Rhoades, a 15-year resident, is not everyone.

"We tell people we're in our 80s, and we're so proud of that," said Dot Gondek, who came with her husband, Joe, from a neighboring unit. "But 106? We had to come. What an inspiration."

Officials said Rhoades is one of 14 residents at Friendship Village near or older than 100.

CEO Robert Alston led the list of dignitaries on hand to greet her. He read a list of her accomplishments, including the more than 700 hats she continues to crochet for children in Third World countries, through Operation Shoebox.

"Crocheting is easy for me," Rhoades said. "I'm very happy that I can do it and spend time helping others. I like to keep busy."

But Alston omitted one major accomplishment: her high school graduation.

It turns out Rhoades, who grew up in rural Kansas, was unable to attend high school, or even make her eighth-grade graduation. One day before her ceremony, her father died in a freak farming accident.

As the third of nine children, Rhoades had to stay home to help raise her younger siblings.

"It would have been a 26-mile trip for me to take the test (for high school)," she described to the crowd. "After my father's accident, I never thought more about going to school."

Tuesday's celebration changed all that. Included in the mix of all the well wishers were representatives from Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211, to present her with an honorary diploma.

"Of all the amazing things you've done, we understand there's something you haven't done: graduate from high school," said Tom Petersen, district spokesman, appearing with Samantha Dolen, curriculum and student services director.

Rhoades smiled broadly as she received the diploma and eagerly posed for pictures with her degree.

"I think it's wonderful," she said, "but I don't feel any more educated."

Rounding out the presentations was an official village proclamation read by Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson.

"I urge all Schaumburg residents to salute the spirit and energy of Lottie Rhoades," Larson said, "and join in her celebration of life."

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