Celebration as Omi reaches a century of strength, sweetness, and survival
From escaping Nazi Germany to building a life and legacy in South Africa, Susan Katz marks her 100th birthday with warmth, dignity, and cheesecake, surrounded by loving family and friends.
In a warm, heartfelt celebration, held at her daughter’s home at Houghton Estate, Susan Katz, known as ‘Omi’, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family, love, and cherished memories.
Born on August 17, 1925, in Regensburg, Germany, Susan’s life began in a world on the brink of profound change.
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The only child of renowned opera singer Rose Firnbacher, and Julius Firnbacher, Susan’s early years were marked by both beauty and upheaval.
At age six, she was left in the care of her grandparents for two years, while her parents fled rising Nazi persecution.
Her journey through Europe took her from Regensburg to Lyon and Marseilles, where, as a young girl of 10, she boarded the Dulia Cezare bound for South Africa alone.
She fondly recalls winning second place in a fancy-dress competition on the ship, dressed as a Hawaiian girl with a skirt made from wine corks.
In 1936, she arrived in South Africa and settled in Hillbrow, forming a lifelong friendship with a neighbour across the road.
Nine years later, in 1945, she met the love of her life, Issy Katz, attracted, not just to his charm, but to his black 1940 Chevy with white-rimmed tyres. “It made me feel like a queen,” she said.
@caxtonjoburgnorth From escaping Nazi Germany to building a life and legacy in South Africa, Susan Katz marks her 100th birthday with warmth, dignity, and cheesecake surrounded by the loving family and friends. #100birthday #Sandton ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
The couple married in 1946 at the Wanderers View Congregation in Johannesburg and enjoyed 51 years of marriage, until he passed at age 83.
They raised three children, two daughters, and a son who tragically passed away 28 years ago.
Susan’s legacy now includes 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
Her daughter, Helen Kruger, now 78, shared moving words at the celebration. “It’s amazing to be able to celebrate my mom’s 100th birthday. She came as an immigrant, started a business, got married, had three children… And now, we’ve all had children too.
“She’s truly grown in this country. It’s just amazing that she’s still so in touch with everything. Of course, it’s hard to walk or hear now, but a hundred is a hundred.”
Omi’s sharp mind and vibrant spirit remain intact. While she now contends with the challenges of age, difficulty hearing, limited mobility, and vision impairment, her enthusiasm for life endures. “I’ve had a long life with joy, sorrow, laughter, and love, but today, looking at all of you, I know I’ve been truly blessed.”
Her third great-grandchild, expressed what so many in the room felt. “Omi, I love you so much, and I’m so lucky to have you. I’m grateful you’re my great granny, and that I’ve had the chance to know you. Thank you for everything.”\
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