DEL MAR, California — Surrounded by family and friends, Jane Wilkens celebrated her 100th birthday, marking a remarkable century filled with resilience, dedication, and love.
Born during the Great Depression, Wilkens reflects on her childhood shaped by hardship and compassion. “She felt sorry, I guess; they were starving, they didn’t have food,” she recalled, referring to her mother’s kindness in inviting strangers into their home to offer them meals and a warm bath.
Wilkens grew up in an era where modern conveniences were scarce, and she vividly remembers the laborious task of washing clothes by hand. “It was [a] tedious job; it took all day practically,” she explained.
In her adult life, Jane married Bob Wilkens and together raised four energetic boys, a job she recalls with a chuckle. “They got into a lot of mischief,” she said, as her son, Bill, chimed in, noting, “They never knew about it. We got away with most of it.”
The family made their home in Solana Beach, where they were instrumental in operating Wilkens Garden Supply. Bill reminisced about the challenges of working in the garden supply business while others headed to the beach. “The only bad part is everybody would walk to the beach while we were working, everybody. It was torture,” he said.
Wilkens attributes her remarkable longevity to her daily routine, which includes long walks with her dog. “I live on a hill,” she chuckled, acknowledging the extra challenge this brings. Her active lifestyle has served her well, helping her navigate serious health issues such as a collapsed lung and cancer.
The matriarch of the family, Jane’s role has been invaluable to her loved ones. Her granddaughter, Jenni, expressed gratitude, stating, “When you talk about a matriarch of the family, we have been so blessed.”
Jenni also shared that despite her age, Wilkens insists on being the one to host family gatherings. “We will arrive, and she’ll be cooking the turkey or cooking the ham, and it’s like we have to argue in order to bring a side dish because she wants to do it all herself,” said Jenni, highlighting her grandmother’s spirited determination.
Bill further expressed his appreciation, saying, “I won the lottery when I was born,” adding, “That’s why I’m still single; I can’t find anyone like her.”
As Jane marks this significant milestone, she continues to exemplify the spirit of resilience and family commitment that has defined her long journey. Beyond her family, Jane finds joy in square dancing, corresponding with pen pals from around the world, and knitting beanies for sick babies in local hospitals. Each activity encapsulates her enduring enthusiasm for life and dedication to giving back.
In a world where the pace of life often seems to speed up, Jane Wilkens serves as a reminder of the importance of family, compassion, and the simple joys that come from a life well-lived.
