3 ‘remarkable’ White Rock women celebrate centenarian status
Published 2:45 pm Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Three White Rock women celebrated their 100th birthdays recently, which was marked with a big celebration at Oceana PARC.
Rose Ball, Evelyn Houston, and Willa Tweed — who each moved into Oceana PARC in 2019 — celebrated their centenarian status June 11 with balloons, cake and well wishes from White Rock Mayor Megan Knight.
The trio of “remarkable ladies” have been “thriving in our independent active lifestyle,” according to an email from Oceana PARC.
Residents, staff and family members gathered to celebrate the milestone birthdays, with Knight saying a few words at the celebration, where the birthday girls were all presented with a birthday card that was signed personally by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Ball, who was born in 1926 in Saskatchewan and raised in Manitoba, has spent her life exemplifying kindness, quiet strength, and dedication, the email shared. From a respected career as a secretary to raising a loving family that now spans generations, Ball “has always made people feel cared for and at ease. Those who know her best treasure her gentle nature — and her perfectly timed sense of humour.”
Houston was born in Winnipeg, and has “lived a life full of warmth, determination, and a bit of spirited fun,” the email continued. From her work with Canada Cement and RBC to running a business with her husband Jack, Evelyn’s life has been one of partnership and perseverance. And as her family fondly recalls, she also knew how to surprise people — “like the time she left a group of young drivers stunned with her impressive driving skills behind the wheel of her Mercury!”
Tweed, whose deep Canadian roots stretch back generations, has lived a life of adventure, community, and joy. “From water skiing into her later years to piloting her own aircraft across the country, Willa has embraced life fully,” the email shared. A devoted volunteer, talented hostess, and lover of music, dancing, and games, she continues to inspire with her energy and passion.