A 101-year-old man from New York, Kenneth “Ken” Rehm, has shared his reflections on a life well-lived, filled with cherished memories and invaluable lessons. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Rehm, a father of five and grandfather of 12, offered insights into the ingredients of happiness that have contributed to his longevity.
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Rehm, who celebrated his centenary earlier this year, expressed gratitude for the experiences and joy that have punctuated his long life. “I never thought I would reach 100,” he remarked. “Looking back, I realise how much I’ve experienced and how many wonderful memories I’ve created.” A veteran of the United States Navy who served in the Pacific during World War II, Rehm spoke affectionately about the importance of love, happiness, and mutual respect in shaping his remarkable journey.
The Navy veteran recently moved into The Bristal at Sayville, a senior living community, where he continues to embrace life with enthusiasm. Reflecting on his marriage, which lasted for 67 years, he noted the profound impact of love and compromise in fostering his happiness. “Reaching 100 is something I never expected, and I’m grateful for the life I’ve had,” he added. The connections he forged throughout his life, particularly with family, are of utmost importance to him.
Rehm was born on April 3, 1925, in the Bronx, later moving with his family to Queens. He fondly recalled his childhood summers spent on Long Island, where his father constructed a house without modern conveniences such as electricity or running water. “Life was very different back then,” he reminisced. “My brother and I would pull a wagon to a nearby pump every evening to bring water home for the family. Some of my happiest memories are of growing up on Long Island.”
After completing his schooling, Rehm enlisted in the Navy from 1943 to 1945. He served in supply operations on a converted ship that transported aircraft across the Pacific. “I worked as a storekeeper, ensuring essential materials were available where they were required,” he explained, noting his time in Australia, a key supply base during his service.
Once his military career concluded, Rehm returned home, where he focused on building a family and a career. He described the peacefulness of life on Long Island as a backdrop for raising his children in a home he constructed himself. “I still treasure the memories of those years and the connections that bind me to my family,” he said. “An old hammer my father used to help build our house is one of my favourite possessions. It hangs on my kitchen wall, serving as a constant reminder of family heritage and continuity.”
Despite losing his wife eight years ago, Rehm conveyed a profound sense of gratitude for the love they shared. “That loss was one of the hardest parts of my life, but I’m thankful for the wonderful life we had together,” he reflected.
In discussing the lessons he hopes to impart to younger generations of his family, Rehm highlighted the significance of love and respect as foundational values. “You have to love one another, respect one another, and learn to get along,” he advised. According to him, life becomes immeasurably more difficult without these virtues.
At this stage of his life, Rehm emphasised that love is paramount, not only within his family but extended outward to all those around him. “If there’s one thing I want people to remember from my story, it’s that happiness, love, and respect make all the difference,” he reiterated. Learning to compromise and appreciating one’s life are key messages he wishes to share.
As he contemplates his past, Rehm feels no major regrets, expressing contentment with the choices and experiences that have shaped him. “I’ve built a career, raised a family, and have so much to reflect on with joy,” he stated.
As Rehm continues to engage with his community at The Bristal at Sayville, he remains optimistic about the future. His story serves as a powerful reminder that a life filled with love, happiness, and respect can lead to tremendous fulfilment, no matter the number of years one lives.