On Sundays, the Journal Star publishes information on central Illinois residents celebrating their 100th birthday. Happy 100th birthday to Lela Windhorst.

Lela Windhorst

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Lela Maria Margareta Miesner Windhorst's 100th birthday on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Riverview Retirement Center in East Peoria.

She was born Feb. 10 in Deshler, Neb. In 1935, Lela graduated from Deshler High School and also was married to Clarence D. Windhorst. Together they relocated to Peoria in 1937.

Lela has five children: Virginia Pacelli of West Palm Beach, Fla.; Mary Taylor of Peoria; John Windhorst of Cummings, Ga.; Jim Windhorst of Mercersburg, Pa.; and Judy Cline of Branson, Mo. She also has numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter.

Lela worked as a bookkeeper and secretary/accountant professionally. She guided adult Bible studies both in Peoria and Llano Grande, Texas. She was also an avid artist, poet, seamstress, quilter and gardener; her specialties were apple and cherry pies using the fruit from their home garden. Each morning she arises with reading her Bible and the working of crossword puzzles including the New York Times puzzle.

When asked what Lela attributes to her longevity, she replied, “Oh, that’s easy — the Lord, my gracious Lord!”

To be part of this feature, please contact the Journal Star to receive a birthday form to fill out. Forms are available online under pjstar.com; or one will be mailed to you by calling 686-3246. Forms need to be received by the 15th of the month prior.