NEW YORK: Anni Petsche, a 103-year-old great-grandmother living in Middle Village, Queens, celebrated her 103rd birthday on Friday with joy, family, and reflections on a life filled with resilience and positivity. Despite her age, Anni hasn’t slowed down and remains an inspiration to her family and friends.
Anni’s Secret to Longevity: Keep Moving and Eat Cake
Anni credits her active lifestyle and her daily slice of cake for her long life. “Keep moving,” she said when asked about her advice for others. Her family describes her as a beacon of love, wisdom, and a ruthless pinochle player.
On her birthday, Anni still made her own coffee, showing her independence and determination to remain self-sufficient.
A Life Full of Challenges and Strength
Born in Munich, Germany, Anni moved to Queens in the 1960s and built a life surrounded by caring neighbors and fond memories. Her life, however, has been marked by challenges:
- Childhood hardships: She grew up in an orphanage, a topic she prefers not to discuss.
- Wartime struggles: During WWII, Anni raised two children when resources were scarce and once went into labor with her second child in a refugee camp in Austria.
- Hard work: After moving to Queens, she worked in a knitting mill to help support her family.
“Growing up in Europe during the wartime, raising two kids when there was nothing—it’s amazing,” said her daughter-in-law Brigitte Petsche.
A Dedicated Caretaker
Despite her age, Anni continues to care for her daughter Erna, who is 20 years younger and living with dementia. Erna described her mother simply: “She is very cool.”
Anni is adamant that a group home is not part of her future plans. Instead, she insists on staying in her own home and continuing to look after herself.
“She wants to do everything on her own,” said her granddaughter Renate Hinsch.
A Life Full of Simple Joys
Anni enjoys the simple pleasures in life, including watching her favorite shows—“The Sound of Music” and “The Price is Right”. Her home in Middle Village remains a place filled with love and cherished memories.
“She has always been the most positive person I know,” said her granddaughter Andrea Bopp.
At 103 years old, Anni Petsche is a living example of resilience, positivity, and independence. Her life is a testament to overcoming adversity, finding joy in everyday moments, and staying active. Her family and friends continue to celebrate her extraordinary spirit, knowing that her legacy will inspire generations to come.
