Never in a million years did Hemi James Puriri imagine that Prime Minister Kevin Rudd would send him a letter of congratulations when he celebrated his 90th birthday recently.
“It is a major milestone and a time to reflect with pride and satisfaction on a long and fruitful life. . . Australians are greatly indebted to people of your generation for the sacrifices and achievements you have made over the years, as well as for the strong and enduring values of family and community that underpin Australian society,” were among the words written to James by the Prime Minister.
James and his sweetheart, Rose, were joined in a celebration of this significant birthday, by their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as family from New Zealand.
The Federal Member for Rankin, Craig Emerson, in whose electorate Jim and Rose live, also sent a message; as did Premier Anna Bligh; State Member for Springwood, Barbara Stone; and Mayor Pam Parker of the Logan City Council. Without exception, they each wished Jim “good health and peace.”
A long, happy and fulfilling life has been lived by Jim. He has given service to others both to those in congregations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of which he is a member, and to individuals and organisations in the communities where he has lived. He has set a fine example of putting the needs of others ahead of his own.
A unique part of the celebrations was the cutting of the cake because a great-granddaughter celebrated her 4th birthday on the same day so the cake was decorated with a 90 on one side and a 4 on the other. Together they cut their very special birthday cake.
