Centenarian: George Coker

George Coker

Baker City, Ore.

George Coker celebrated his 100th birthday Feb. 22.

He was born in Rosalia, Wash., on Feb. 22, 1908. He retired in Medical Lake, where he was a resident until he was 90. He now lives in Baker City, Ore.

Coker met his wife, Laura, in Spokane, and they married in 1933. She died in 1986.

He worked in the mines in Kellogg and in construction and logging in Idaho and Oregon. He says his most rewarding life achievements are the relationships he has formed.

Coker says he believes he has been instrumental in bringing his family close together.

When asked what the most memorable moment in his 100 years has been, he said when he accepted Christ and became a Christian.

Coker has six daughters: Donna Norburn, Seattle; Debbie Coker, Portland; Mary Evenson, Medford, Ore.; Cledith Vandenbos, Baker City; and the late Dixie Harris; the late Delva Coker. He also has nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.