Chicago's Oldest Living Opera Singer Turns 105 Years Old

NORTHLAKE, Ill., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Every morning, Lillian Krockerberger sings her favorite opera arias in German. While that may not seem like a monumental accomplishment, this opera soprano turns 105 years old on Feb 3, 2010.

Lillian was born in Germany in 1905. An orphan, she came to Chicago, Illinois in 1921 and worked as a maid and caregiver for a wealthy family. That's when she met her husband, Carl. "He saw me through the front window of the home I was working at. It was love at first sight," said Lillian.

During Lillian and Carl's marriage, they had two children together, Carl Jr. and Lydia, and four grandchildren. Though Lillian's husband and two children have since passed on, her four grandchildren remain a big part of her life.

Lillian's husband, also a musician, played piano and violin. Together they enjoyed careers as entertainers in the Chicago area.

For the past 20 years, Lillian has lived in the Chicago suburb of Northlake at Concord Place Retirement and Assisted Living Community (http://www.concordplace.com). Concord Place Executive Director, Colleen Bottens said that "Lillian's joyous song is a gift to residence and staff alike." Lillian remains fiercely independent and sings every day. "The secret to a long life is to be happy and consider each day a gift," said Lillian.

On Saturday, January 30, 2010, Concord Place is throwing Lillian a 105th birthday party. She will be joined by her Concord Place friends, 20 family members and the Mayor of Northlake, IL, Jeffrey Sherwin.

Press is invited to attend and celebrate Lillian Krockerberger's 105th Birthday Party.

About Concord Place Retirement and Assisted Living Community:

Conveniently located in Northlake, Illinois, Concord Place Retirement and Assisted Living Community is one of the premier Retirement Communities in Chicago and surrounding areas. Concord Place offers an enjoyable life for older adults, with private apartments, three restaurant-style meals a day, activities, companionship and on-site assistance.  http://www.concordplace.com

SOURCE Concord Place Retirement and Assisted Living Community