Centenarian Katherine Peterson

Katherine Peterson

Spokane

Katherine Wilma (Kryns) Peterson is celebrating her 100th birthday today. She was born Sept. 29, 1909, in Den Helder, Holland. She moved to Camden, Wash., in 1912, when her father bought property there.

She met her husband, Frank Peterson, at a dance in Camden. They were married in 1935. He died in 1961.

Peterson worked for the state of Washington Employment Security for 17 years. Her most rewarding life achievement was raising her four children.

Today she enjoys spending time at the Hillyard Senior Center and the casino. Up until last November, Peterson lived in her own home.

Peterson credits her long and healthy life to having regular hours, regular meals, a nap and a walk nearly every day and good genes. Her brother is 101 years old.

When asked what has been her most memorable moment in the past 100 years, Peterson mentioned the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Peterson has four children: Doris Abrahamson, Spokane; Darrell Peterson, Spokane; Linda Weatbrook, Prescott, Ariz.; and Larry Peterson, Mossyrock, Wash. She has 13 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.