Family, friends gather to celebrate Michiana man's 106th birthday
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Updated: 11:41 PM Jul 12, 2009
Family, friends gather to celebrate Michiana man's 106th birthday
Sunday is a momentous day in Ethan Shelton's life. He is celebrating his birthday -- for the 106th time.
Posted: 7:36 PM Jul 12, 2009
Reporter: Joel Schipper
Email Address: joel.schipper@wndu.com
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Sunday is a momentous day in Ethan Shelton's life.

He is celebrating his birthday -- for the 106th time.

Born in 1903, Ethan has seen many firsts. In fact, the Wright brothers flew in the first airplane just five months after his birth.

"The Ford Motor Company was incorporated the same year he was born," points out Joe Shelton, Ethan's son.

Ethan has always been a cut above the rest. This former barber took his passion for gardening and started Shelton's Farm Market in Niles.

"I like to work in the garden, I like to play golf," Ethan says.

He began hitting the links at the young age of 72 and began ballroom dancing at 90.

"I've even seen him dance. I haven't gotten to go to the golf course yet, but I think I'm going to have to do that just to see him," explains Colleen Shelton, Ethan's great-granddaughter.

And it's that on-the-go lifestyle that keeps this father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather busy.

"It is wonderful, and to be 106 and still golf and do his garden and even go to grandparents' day and be great-great-grandpa. It's wonderful, a wonderful experience," Colleen adds.

And Ethan's secret to longevity?

"I don't have any secrets," he admits. "I stay pretty active."

"He's an awesome individual," Joe explains. "I always say that he's a very lucky man, and we're lucky to have him."

It is a remarkable birthday surrounded by family, friends, and more than a century of memories.

"I don't think you'd be able to add very much more to it. It seems just about perfect," Ethan concludes.



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