Vancouver woman celebrates 100 years

Odgen — Consuelo Maria “Connie” Herod, one of six children, was born on Aug. 6, 1911, in Los Angeles.

According to her daughter, Ramona Arnold of Vancouver, her mother has, from a young age, had a mind of her own. She also was the one everyone called when catastrophe struck.

Herod, who is an ordained Christian minister, describes herself as a seeker and student of truth. She was married once and divorced in 1960.

Arnold said her mother is known for being independent and resourceful, and made a living for herself over the years as a caretaker. She cared for one or two elderly or disabled people at a time, usually in her home. When Herod was in her 80s, she would drive to Enumclaw to care for an elderly man during the week, then return to Vancouver on the weekends. She often took her schnauzer, Amorcito, with her on these trips.

Herod has lived in Sedona, Ariz., and Mount Shasta, Calif., and for the past four years has lived in an adult home in Vancouver.

Arnold says her mother’s determination, great attitude and encouragement for others have kept her young in spirit. Herod’s caregiver at Galila’s Adult Family Home says she feels energized after interacting with Herod.

Herod has three daughters — Marie Antonette Tobyansen in Spanish Springs, Nev.; Naomi Kinert of El Dorado Hills, Calif.; and Arnold; as well as 11 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Herod celebrated her birthday Aug. 6 at The Old Spaghetti Factory in Portland.