Ethel Yonemitsu celebrated a milestone this month that few ever achieve. On March 5, the lifelong East Hawaii resident turned 104.
She celebrated her birthday at the Pomaikai Senior Center in Hilo with help from her nephew, Teddy Gumbs, and about 15 Pomaikai members.
“It’s hard to believe,” Yonemitsu told the Tribune-Herald after the brief celebration.
According to her family, Yonemitsu was born on Chin Chuck Road in Hakalau. She attended school from kindergarten to sixth-grade in Paauhau.
She operated the Highway Fountain restaurant in Paauilo for many years. She also raised three children and has multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Pomaikai president Dorothy Williams said Yonemitsu was a longtime member at the senior center and still comes to visit. She said 104 is the oldest birthday the center has ever celebrated. Williams also said Yonemitsu was an avid ukulele player and an active volunteer in the community.