By June Norvila
A special birthday party was held at the Bentley Drop-In Centre on June 29. It was in honor of the 90th birthday of Doris Coulton, who is quick to say “but my birthday was on June 30.”
Doris said she was sorry some people couldn’t attend, as they were busy that day, but greatly appreciated the work and organization and planning that went into throwing the party for her.
She admits the party was a bit of a surprise. Doris said she is not sure exactly who all was involved in staging the party for her because “normally that kind of thing would be put on by family, but I have no (extended) family here.”
Entertainment was provided by Steve Cregg on classical guitar, Rev. Ray Goodship with guitar and song, and by the singing of Louise Pickering.
Coulton received congratulatory messages from the Town of Bentley (which she indicated means a lot to her), M.L.A. Ty Lund, M.P. Blaine Calkins, Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and Governor General Michaelle Jean. All of them, along with some photos of various activities she has been involved in over the years, were framed and on display for all to see.
Doris was born in Leeds, Yorkshire, England in 1918. She married Walter in 1937 and they came to Canada in 1953. They became Canadian citizens within a few weeks.
After a number of postings (Walter became a minister after coming to Canada) they settled in Bentley in 1973 where she still resides with her son Richard. Walter passed away in 2001 after 64 years of marriage.
Doris has been very active in many things in the community including the United Church and its choir, the Bentley Senior Drop-In from its inception and its choir, and more recently the Bentley drama club “Caught In The Act”.
She has entered numerous items including flower arrangements, photos, and artwork, in the annual Bentley fair, and continues to do so, and has earned many a ribbon and prize.
Her love she says is poetry. She published a book of some of her poems in 2001 and another book of her original poetry is in the planning stages.
She has always enjoyed doing readings and entertaining others, and for many years Doris has helped out with volunteer church services at the Bentley Care Centre.
She admits now the yard work and garden is a little harder to take care of though.