Hilde Turns 100; Parents Sent Her From Germany To Caldwell During War

THE CALDWELLS, NJ — Hildegard "Hilde" Groth has seen a lot in her 100 years. Although she grew up on her parents' farm in Germany, that changed around 1940. Groth was 17 and war was escalating, so her mom and dad sent her to Caldwell.

She never moved back to Germany.

Groth was sent to live with three siblings who'd been in New Jersey for a while, noted representatives for The Chelsea, her assisted living home in Monmouth County.

"She learned English by working as a nanny," noted a spokesperson for the center, "and through her Folk Dancing Club where she met other German expatriates."

Groth was married for more than 40 years, but never had children, according to The Chelsea.

Her husband, William, also a German immigrant, died only four years ago. The pair had been married for 54 years, and William had served on the West Essex First Aid Squad for 60 years.

44 Years At Same Job

She made many close friends, particularly while working at Montclair Radiology for 44 years.

Those friends included a longtime coworker of Groth, Frechette, who goes by “Pru.”

"Passion may be the secret to reaching 100," said representatives of The Chelsea, an assisted living and memory care community in Shrewsbury. "She always had a desire to be in the medical field, even after she emigrated to the United States during World War II and had to overcome a language barrier."

The Chelsea threw a 100th birthday party last month for both Groth and for local resident Shirley Parker, who hit the milestone the same month. Both enjoyed a celebration at the center's tavern, surrounded by a big group of family and friends.

"Please join us in wishing them a very happy birthday," said representatives of the senior living enter.

The Chelsea offers apartments for assisted living, independent living, and memory care in 21 communities. Chelsea also owns and operates Mt. Bethel Village, a residence for adults with special needs, and Inglemoor Rehabilitation and Care Center. To learn more, visit www.ChelseaSeniorLiving.com.