Fred Gard gets a special birthday surprise

Fred Gard is 103 years young.

Gard was joined by a host of friends, family and fellow residents at Pathways Retirement Residence Monday for a birthday celebration.

Gard, a curling enthusiast, was delighted by a surprise visit from Brad Jacobs, the Sault’s Winter Olympics gold medal-winning curling hero.

Gard was fascinated to see and hold Jacobs gold medal, which he and his rink won in Sochi in 2014.

Gard was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and moved to Sault Ste. Marie in 1937.

Throughout his life, he worked as a printer, Algoma Steel employee and Commissionaires security guard.

He is also the oldest member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 25.

Gard served in the Second World War with the Canadian Army in France and Belgium.

“He’s a perfect gentleman,” said longtime friend and fellow Legion member Lee Coull.

“He was very involved in our Legion, he was a curler, great tennis and lacrosse player,” Coull recalled.   

SooToday asked Gard what he considered to be the biggest factor which has led to his longevity.

“Just lucky I guess,” Gard smiled, though his wife Joan said “the secret is to be happy.”