Hilde Kaufman celebrates her 106th birthday with friends and family. {David Volz}
Living to 106 is an accomplishment, but Hilde Kaufman doesn’t feel old.
She celebrated her 106th birthday on September 6 at the Palm Lakes Condominiums clubhouse with family and friends. Mayor Antonio Arserio and Commissioner Arlene Schwartz presented her with a plaque from Margate in honor of her long life.
“I don’t feel like an older person, and I love to stay active in groups at Palm Lakes,” adding that she has seen many people come and go from this community.
Kaufman has faced many challenges over her long life. She was one of the last Jewish people allowed to leave Germany by the Nazi government. She and her younger sister, Inge, sailed from Europe in 1939 and arrived at Ellis Island in New York as teenagers, according to her nephew, Richard Wolff, Inge’s son.
Hilde and Inge’s father died after being arrested by the Nazis, and their mother died in a concentration camp in Poland. Hilde and Inge moved to Chicago, and Hilde established a career as a beautician. Inge went into business and became a secretary. Hilde was married to Jimmy, who served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. She eventually moved to Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania.
After Jimmy died, Hilde moved to Margate about 40 years ago and has led an active life. According to Wolff, Hilde loves going to the mall and spending time with friends.
“She is very sharp and remains active,” said Wolff.
Commissioner Arlene Schwartz with Hilde Kaufman.
During the birthday party, Hilde enjoyed talking with family and friends. Her birthday is actually September 30th, but the condominium’s social committee, chaired by Cynthia Vanderhorst, decided to celebrate a few weeks early.
“I know everyone who came had a good time. I am very honored to be her nephew and elated that she will be 106 years old,” said Wolff.
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