Ruth McCausland celebrated her 100th birthday in Olympia on Thursday with a large group of family and friends.
Ruth and Bob, her husband of 65 years, called Tokeland home for 27 years. They moved to Olympia in 2006, shortly before Bob’s death at age 90. She now resides at the Firs, an independent living facility there.
The McCauslands were founding members of the Westport-South Beach Historical Society; McCausland Hall at the Westport Maritime Museum is named after them. Ruth is the author of “Washington’s Westport,” a comprehensive history published in 1998 (and illustrated by Bob, a talented artist).
She also wrote a regular birding column for the South Beach Bulletin for many years.
“We had a great visit with Ruth and about 100 others,” said John Shaw, executive director of the Historical Society, noting that she was up and around with her walker, mingling with the guests.
He said a pair of Ruth’s longtime friends carried special birthday greetings: a card from King Harald V of Norway. “Ruth and her cousin Thor Lorentzen of Westport both have family that came from Norway and have strong connections,” he said.
Ruth McCausland received this card signed by Harald V, king of Norway. Translation: “Mrs. Ruth McCausland: My warmest congratulations on the occasion of your 100th birthday.”
Ruth McCausland proudly sported a sash reading “It’s my 100th birthday!”
Ruth McCausland receives a birthday card from granddaughter Meghan McCausland.
