Opal A. Reifenberg

At 100 years old, Opal Reifenberg freely shared the secret of her longevity: “I know I wouldn’t still be here if it weren’t for the joy that the grandchildren have brought me,” she would say to anyone who inquired about how she had remained so vital for so long.

Her ten grandchildren reflected that same admiration. “She reminded us every day how special we were to her. And I know we each tried to show her that we felt the same toward her,” grandson Matthew remarked.

Opal’s life was remarkable not only for its extraordinary length but for the way she led by example. She inspired others with a positive attitude and zest for life that never waned even as she marched into her second century.

At the age of 75, and shortly after the death of her husband of 51 years, Opal embarked on a new career in the Technical Services Department at the Wilmette Public Library. She would hold that position until her death 25 years later, working five days a week and becoming one of the library’s longest tenured employees.

A lifelong reader and appreciator of great literature, Opal spoke of what her job meant to her, “I am surrounded by books and my closest friends, what could be better?” she said in an interview at her 100th birthday celebration.

Born in 1912 in Portsmouth, Ohio, Opal was one of six children. She had memories of the great events of the 20th Century, including World War I. She met the love of her life, Paul, at an Ohio State/Northwestern football game, and they married in 1939 in Paris, Kentucky.

“She used to tell people with a sly smile that she and my dad were married in Paris,” daughter Katherine Williams said.

Opal and Paul had five children spaced over 16 years, George, Jan, Katherine, James and Robert, each attending schools in Wilmette and graduating from various colleges around the country.

Never having driven a car, Opal could frequently be seen on the sidewalks of Wilmette, walking to the library, grocery store or just getting some exercise.

“Even after her 100th birthday she would still walk a mile a day. Then, she would tell you about the dogwood she saw in bloom or the conversation she had with the mailman. She loved everything about her life and never took a day for granted,” daughter-in-law Janie Reifenberg said.

A memorial service will be held 2pm Sunday, August 11, 2013 at the Michigan Shores Club Wilmette, IL. In liue of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wilmette Public Library.

Opal was the beloved wife of the late Paul; Loving sister of the late Florence (the late Lester) Brady, the late Clifford Ackinson, the late Donald Ackinson, the late Gladys (late Robert) Menges, the late William (the late Marci) Ackinson Jr.; Cherished daughter of the late Arminda nee Ferrell and the late William E. Ackinson; devoted mother of George (Anne nee Boyle), Jan (Nancy nee), Katherine Williams, James (Anne nee Morris), Robert (Janie nee Morris); cherished grandmother of Kevin, Sean, Brian, Tara Kathleen, James C. Jr., John, Sarah, Matthew, Jennifer, and Megan; and many devoted nieces & nephews. The family gives heartfelt thanks to Lutheran General Hospital.