BUTLER, Pa. — July has been a month of extraordinary milestones at Newhaven Court at Clearview, as two remarkable senior living residents celebrated birthdays that together represent more than two centuries of life, wisdom and perseverance.
Ruth Spack marked her 104th birthday on July 7, while Ann Bogusky celebrated her 101st birthday on July 8.
Though each chose to celebrate privately with family rather than with a community party, their birthdays served as a meaningful reminder of the incredible lives they have lived and how much they’ve inspired those around them.
Ruth’s journey with Newhaven Court at Clearview began in 2016 when she first stayed as a short-term resident. After returning home, she came back in January 2022 and has been a special part of the community since.
“Over the years, Ruth has remained committed to living with purpose,” said Krystle Pry, Executive Operations Officer at Newhaven Court at Clearview.
Ruth Spack made that point evident on a special date four years ago.
“I do feel a sense of pride about it. I still want to continue to be useful,” Ruth said after celebrating her 100th birthday in 2022. That message still resonates.
She has served as an example of resilience, optimism and determination for fellow residents and team members alike.
Raised on a family farm in Prospect, Butler County, Ruth credits her upbringing with shaping the life she has enjoyed for more than a century.
“We would can food, work the garden, and we were always busy,” she recalled. “After high school I moved to Meridian and did some work with child care. Then I worked at a store in Meridian. Then, I worked 25 years for Butler County. I worked in the prothonotary office as a clerk of the common pleas court.”
The healthy habits she developed growing up have remained with her throughout her life.
“I was raised on a farm with a large family, always lived a good, clean healthy life,” Ruth said. “I walked four miles to high school. They say walking is good for you. Maybe all that walking may have done me some good.”
This year’s birthday also included a memorable first. At 104 years old, Ruth had her nails painted for the very first time, adding a joyful and unexpected touch to her special celebration.
Just one day later, fellow resident Ann Bogusky celebrated her own milestone birthday, turning 101 on July 8. Ann became a resident at Newhaven Court at Clearview in December 2022, and has become a valued member of the senior living community.
“Celebrating residents like Ruth and Ann is about so much more than recognizing their birthdays,” said Tracy Fencil, Community Relations Director at Newhaven Court at Clearview. “They each bring a lifetime of experiences, wisdom and kindness that enrich our community every day. Their resilience and positive outlook inspire not only their fellow residents but also our team, reminding us that every stage of life has something meaningful to teach.”
Together, Ruth and Ann represent more than longevity. Their lives reflect generations of hard work, family, resilience and changing times. Their stories remind those around them that every year brings new memories, new friendships and new reasons to celebrate.
While their birthdays were marked quietly with family rather than large gatherings, the occasion honored two lives well lived and two enduring legacies that continue to inspire everyone at Newhaven Court at Clearview.
For more information, contact Tracy Fencil, Community Relations Director, Newhaven Court at Clearview, at [email protected] or call 724.447.8701.
