25 May 2023
Regis Bunbury resident Joan Lantzke celebrated her 100th birthday this month surrounded by family and friends who flew in from around Australia, and who say the centenarian remains committed to others and has a wonderful heart.
Mrs Lantzke immigrated to Australia from London with her parents and brother when she was just three months old, winning the ‘best baby’ competition on the ship carrying the family, the SS Suevic, who subsequently settled in Adelaide when they arrived ‘down under’ on 3 December 1923.
After completing her schooling, Joan went on to train as a nurse at the Adelaide Memorial Hospital, and it was her vocation that took her on an adventure to New Guinea in 1948, where she enjoyed a stint working at the local hospital. It was there that she met her future husband Reginald, a pilot who had served in Bomber Command during World War II.
The couple went on to marry and have three children – two boys and a girl – and as the matriarch of the family, Joan now also has four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
And in a century that’s seen World Wars, the landing of man on the moon, the development of the internet as well as a myriad of other world-shaping events, Mrs Lantzke puts her longevity down to helping others and being immersed in the community.
“Mum has always been very community minded and committed to helping others,” says her daughter Lisa-Maj Ferris, who explains her mother moved over to Perth in 1992 following the death of her husband Reg.
“Mum still has a sharp sense of humour and a kind heart, and our family is very much looking forward to celebrating her 100th birthday, it’s going to be a really wonderful day.”
Regis Bunbury General Manager, Kylie Marquart, says Joan is an inspiring lady who remains dedicated to her family and is a popular member of the tightly-knit Regis Bunbury community.
“Everyone at Regis Bunbury likes and respects Joan very much and we’re all delighted that she has reached this major milestone; we made a big fuss of her on her big day,” she says.
“Maintaining good health throughout life is a key factor when it comes to ageing well, but things like staying engaged within the community and maintaining strong relationships with family and friends are just as important to positive ageing, which we place a strong emphasis on at Regis Bunbury.”
Mrs Lantzke family planned a celebratory birthday lunch on her 100th birthday, with the team at Regis Bunbury also hosting a celebratory morning tea for their latest centenarian.
