Anzac World War II veteran who just turned 107 says the secret to his long life is beer and caramel popcorn
New Zealand’s oldest man celebrated his 107th birthday this week and says the secret to his long life is “caramel popcorn and a beer.”
Jack Coe was born on May 11, 1916 in Bulls, a small town in New Zealand between Whanganui and Palmerston North.
On Thursday, he celebrated his birthday with St Johns Care facility staff and his family, complete with caramel popcorn birthday cake.
Until four months ago, Mr. Coe lived independently, but that was no longer possible due to a series of falls and a worsening of his eyesight.
The 107-year-old has spent most of his life in the small town and built a house with his wife Thora in 1950, where they raised two children.
Jack Coe (pictured) celebrated his 107th birthday on Thursday
Mr. Coe served in World War II and was stationed in New Caledonia to defend a US Air Force base.
Before retiring over 40 years ago when he was 64, Mr. Coe ran a painting and decorating business.
His favorite hobbies were hunting and fishing, and he continued fishing until his 100th birthday.
His favorite childhood memories include traveling in a four-horse wagon to collect firewood from the beach, learning how to fish and hunt rabbits.
Jack Coe, 107, is pictured at last year’s Anzac Day parade