ESTEVAN - Aug. 15 was a day to celebrate for Creighton Lodge resident Marie Bill, as it was her 100th birthday.
In a letter to the Mercury, her niece, Joanne Bill, noted that Marie was born on Aug. 15, 1922 in Lampman, and was the second-oldest of nine in the family of Jacob and Mary Schaff.
After finishing public school, Marie worked as a telephone operator in the central office of her hometown.
She married Gordon Bill in 1944 and moved to a farm near Estevan. She milked cows, raised chickens and helped with anything that needed to be done, like many farm wives.
Sewing was one of Marie’s many talents, Joanne said, as she made graduation and bridesmaids gowns for family. And Marie was a great cook and baker.
“You could not stop in at her home without being asked to stay for a meal or at least have a cup of coffee and a cookie,” Joanne wrote.
Marie and Gordon were Estevan Bruins’ season ticket holders and members of the Estevan Elks Lodge. Marie was very active in the Royal Purple, serving in many capacities and working at banquets almost weekly.
In the later years, Marie volunteered at the Estevan Regional Nursing Home, calling Bingo twice a week.
Marie and Gordon did not have children of their own, but when their sister-in-law passed away, they very kindly and lovingly took her three sons into their home for several years.
When Gordon died in 1976, Marie moved into Estevan and continued with her volunteering, Joanne said.
“In 2013, Marie moved into Creighton Lodge, where she still resides,” Joanne said. “She says she could not ask for a better place.”
Joanne added Marie is a very positive person and always very content in her life.
Due to COVID-19 concerns, Marie had a smaller 100th birthday bash than planned. Two of her nieces and nephews joined her for dinner and birthday cake at Creighton Lodge.
Once everyone was well again, family from Regina, Pilot Butte and B.C. helped Marie celebrate again.
