Local People
- Last Updated on Sunday, 02 October 2016 01:13
By Paul Chasko
Well over 100 guests showed up at St. Francis Finley Hall to celebrate the 100th birthday of John Baumgarten Sr.
Always the entertainer, John goes into his George Burns routine – with props! |
John resides on School Place in Finleyville. He doesn’t get around as much as he used to, but he is still quite active. He’s a member of Saint Francis of Assisi Church and Parish and is an active member and past officer of The Knights of Columbus Council 13832. He's also a World War II Veteran.
Guests at the event covered a wide spectrum of folks including relations, friends, past co-workers, fellow Knights, and representatives of local, county and state governing bodies. Certificates recognizing John’s centennial celebration were presented by Finleyville Mayor Mike Kutsek, County Commissioners Harlan Shober and Larry Maggi, and State Representative Rick Saccone. Washington County District Attorney Eugene Vittone led a lineup of folks wishing to publically wish John a happy birthday and add their comments.
Also present were a few senior folks who’d participated with John acting, singing and dancing in the annual “Showboat” musical production produced under the auspices of the Southwestern PA Area Agency on Aging. John is an entertainer at heart. He’s participated in several “Showboat “productions and has also written and had copyrighted over ten romantic songs. Even at his birthday celebration, John couldn’t resist entertaining this captive audience. Happy birthday, John, and many more!
Click on "Gallery" for more photos of John's birthday celebration by Paul Chasko.