Centenarian sets sights on ‘110’

Erika Voss at her 100th birthday party in Crescent City recently. Submitted

Erika was born on Oct. 8, 1911, in Westcliffe, Colo., to Erich and Martha Jeske, attending school and living with her family until her marriage to Emil Voss on Oct. 8, 1930. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Williams, Ore., in the Rogue Valley where they lived on their farm at the foot of Greyback Mountain until 1989. At that time, they relocated to Crescent City and purchased a home adjacent to their son, Carl, and his wife, Alice.

Presently, she lives in her own home tending her flowers, baking and living as she chooses. Her son Carl passed away in December 2002, followed by her husband, Emil, in May 2004. She has three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

She has been a life-long member of the Lutheran Church and was married in the Hope Lutheran Church in Westcliffe. Once she and Emil moved to Williams, they began to attend St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, Ore. They traveled the 25 miles into town each Sunday to worship with their friends and neighbors, establishing many close friendships. Since moving to Crescent City she has attended Grace Lutheran Church, where she is a much beloved member of the congregation.

Erika has always loved flowers and still enjoys working in her flower garden. Her yard is the showplace of the neighborhood. Two years ago she was forced to give up her vegetable garden, which was very difficult for her as she loves to grow her own vegetables. She has participated in garden and knitting clubs while living in Williams, as well as participating on many church committees.

Her goal was to reach 100. Now that she has reached her goal, she has reset her sights on reaching 110.