Worcester, Massachusetts June 4, 2010 — Joseph C. O’ Brien, Mayor of Worcester, presented Ruth Norling with a “Key to the City” in honor of her 100th Birthday on June 7. Ruth, a resident of Briarwood Continuing Care Retirement Community, was among the first resident “Pioneers.” She moved to Briarwood in 1985 with her husband Claus, who passed away in 1992.
A native of Worcester, Norling worked as a Social Worker for the City of Worcester for 30 years. She is a long time member of Grace Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school, was Sunday School superintendent and conducted daily vacation bible school. She was also a member of the Grace Mission Guild.
After retirement, Ruth joined the Women’s Mission Circle where she had several leadership roles, including President. She is currently a member of the Burncoat Baptist Church in Worcester.
“I’m lucky to be so healthy,” says Norling, who enjoys collecting dolls and Dalmatian dog figurines. Ruth belongs to the Briarwood “Stitch and Chat” group and has enjoyed needlepoint, and knitting. She has 3 step-children, 9 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. She also has many, many friends. Briarwood is a non-profit community that includes Independent Living cottages & apartments, Assisted Living apartments, and the Knollwood Nursing Center for skilled nursing & rehabilitation services.