An elderly resident from Toekomsrus celebrated his 99th birthday on Monday May 23 by basking in the love of his friends and family.

Freddie Solomon, whose family surprised him on his special day said he was one of the luckiest few to live for almost 10 decades. He now can’t wait to turn 100 next year.

Born in 1923, Freddie said he will be enjoying his last year as a nonagenarian.

Speaking to the Herald, Freddie gave thanks to those who have been in his life namely his family, his four children and his friends.

I thank God for still keeping me alive and being the great-grandfather of many children,” he said.

His last-born daughter, Esther Ruiters, 64, said as a family, they made sure that their father enjoyed his birthday.

“We pulled out all the stops and went to church. It was one big, happy celebration. We’re grateful that we still have him in our lives and he’s always been the beacon for overcoming all the hardships in life,” Ruiters said.