In a heartwarming celebration at MacDade Bowl in Pennsylvania, William Owen Hanna marked a remarkable milestone — his 100th birthday. Family, friends, and fellow members of the MacDade Bowl Senior League gathered to honour the centenarian on this significant day.
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William’s journey with bowling started in the 1940s when he was still a teenager. Reflecting on the early days of his favourite pastime, he recalled, “When I started bowling, you had to have someone back there setting the pins up. I started out as a pin setter.” This experience paved the way for a lifelong passion that has seen him continue to bowl well into his centenary.
Throughout the celebration, William demonstrated that age is just a number. He enthusiastically bowled strikes while surrounded by the warmth of loved ones. “God has blessed me to live to see my 100th birthday, yeah,” he remarked during an interview. He expressed his desire to keep bowling as long as he was able to lift the 13- or 14-pound bowling ball, cherishing the camaraderie of his fellow bowlers.
Attending the birthday festivities was his last surviving daughter, Patricia Hanna Clark. Patricia shared heartfelt sentiments about her father, saying, “He’s an inspiration, not only to myself as his daughter, but to his friends and the rest of his family.” William’s family extends beyond immediate relatives; he has six grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 23 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom share in the joy of his centenary.
During the birthday party, the vibrant atmosphere was enhanced by guests joyfully singing “Happy Birthday” to William, who was seen smiling and embracing friends. Dan Mozier, manager of the MacDade Bowl Senior League, showed appreciation for William’s enduring presence, stating, “We’ve got a cake and everything… nothing real fancy, but we’ve got to acknowledge the fact that he’s still with us.”
In addition to his dedication to bowling, William has led a rich and varied life. He served his country in the Army, specifically in the Quartermaster Corps, and held several roles including Sunday School teacher, deacon, Boy Scouts leader, and even worked in transportation and mechanics. William’s diverse experiences have contributed to a life well-lived, filled with service to others.
As he celebrated this significant birthday, William’s story resonated with many who recognise the value of resilience and community. His continued enthusiasm for bowling and life serves as a testament to the spirit of enjoyment and connection that can be found, irrespective of age.
The festivities at MacDade Bowl demonstrated not only a celebration of birthdays but also a celebration of legacy and family. William Owen Hanna’s life and passion for bowling inspire those around him, leaving an imprint on future generations and reinforcing the importance of shared experiences. As long as he can roll that ball, William plans to keep bowling, a fitting testament to his enduring spirit and love for the game.