Amanzimtoti’s beloved senior, Aunty Bunny, hops to 103-years-old
Residentia Mooi Hawens' most senior resident, Aunty Bunny, celebrated her 103rd birthday over a delightful afternoon tea.
HER bright and joyful smile lit up Tabor Hall in Winklespruit on February 5 as beloved member of the Amanzimtoti community, Elaine Fabel, fondly known as Aunty Bunny, celebrated an extraordinary 103 years of life during an intimate tea party with her dear friends at Mooi Hawens.
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She was born Elaine Tapeinos. Her family name is Greek for ‘humble’ and so too are her beginnings. Bunny grew up on a dairy farm in Boksburg as one of seven children. She explained that her nickname has charming origins. Her father used to call her his “Little bunny,” because as a baby, she was so tiny she could fit into a shoebox and was placed next to the coal stove to keep warm, a story she still tells with delight.
She grew up in a happy, hardworking religious household and she would help her mother deliver milk by horse and buggy, getting into plenty of mischief with her siblings throughout. Her dear friend, Elize Pelser, said that over the years, Bunny had many careers, but one of her proudest achievements was building an old age home for the South African Railways, transforming an empty piece of land into a thriving community alongside her husband, Dan Fabel.
“Aunty Bunny and Dan moved to Amanzimtoti 36 years ago and were among the first residents of Tabor. Over the decades, she has been an active and dedicated member, serving on more committees than she can remember. After Dan’s passing, Bunny remained at Tabor and today holds the special distinction of being its oldest and longest-standing resident,” said Pelser.
Remarkably, she still lives independently in her own two-bedroom flat and she continues to lead a wonderfully active life.
She plays Bingo every Monday, with two cards, no less, enjoys Rummikub twice a week, and regularly walks to Mooihawens and Huis Lena to visit friends in frail care.
A devoted Methodist, she attends church services on her own every week. Weekly visits to the hair salon and a monthly trip to the Pamper Palace are firm favourites.
“Bunny believes in staying active, both physically and mentally. As she often says, reaching this age is ‘By the grace of God,’ and by keeping her brain busy. She loves reading and gardening, taking a morning walk on the third floor to admire everyone’s plants. She has never owned a cellphone, believing technology takes away the personal touch of communication,” said Pelser.
She has two children, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Pelser added that Bunny is a true matriarch, endlessly positive, never complaining, and always ready with a kind word or a laugh.
“Her humour and spirit continue to inspire all who know her,” she concluded.
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