It was perhaps one of the most awaited moments in the history of Pleasant Care - Santa Cruz. After all, not everybody gets to reach 100 years old.

And so when Raymond Grova, otherwise known as “Grandpa,” celebrated his 100th birthday on September 30, 2002, it was truly no ordinary day. A small program was prepared by the Activity Department. There was music, food and a lot of laughter.

His only son Angelo with wife Beverly and grandchildren Michael, 34, and Arianna, 16, came to share the happy occasion.

Grandpa Grova was born in Racalmuto, Sicily. He arrived in New York City with his father in 1912.

“I love him very much and I am proud of him because he has led a fantastic life,” said the younger Grova. Grandpa’s wife Margarita died at the age of 99.

An accomplished musician, Grandpa played clarinet, saxophone and accordion in Italy and the United States. He was also a music teacher and became a member of the distinguished Federation of the Greater Musicians of New York.

In 1942, Grova assisted the American Army in Sicily as interpreter for the American Intelligence Corps and received commendation from the US military for his valuable assistance. He later on got married and raised his son Angelo by working as a jeweler in New York City. In 1997, Grandpa said goodbye to New York and moved to Santa Cruz to live near his son.

President George W. Bush and First Lady sent birthday greetings to Grova: “You are leading a remarkable life that is great in years and great in accomplishments. We join your family and friends in wishing you a wonderful celebration. May you be surrounded by the warmth of happy memories and secure in the knowledge that you continue to make this world a better place for all who love you.”

Speaker Pro Tem Fred Keeley, of the California State Assembly sent a certificate of recognition to Grova in honor of his 100th birthday. Former Santa Cruz Mayor Christopher Krohn issued a proclamation declaring September 30, 2002 as “Raymond Grova Day.” According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are about 70,000 Americans living today who are over 100 years old. And the number is expected to grow dramatically during the next century.

This entry was posted on Monday, September 30th, 2002 at 5:24 pm. You can trackback from your own site.