Bolton Clarke At Home Support client, Thelma Falkenberg, has spent a lifetime putting smiles on people’s faces.
Growing up in the South Yarra area, the newly minted centenarian, who celebrated her 100th birthday this month, has worked across Melbourne, owning a series of local businesses.
“When I finished school, I went to the Hairdressing Academy and spent many years working as a hairdresser at Millers in the city,” Thelma said.
“I was the only child, but I grew up with cousins that lived nearby so they became like my brothers and sisters.”
She married George in 1949 and together they started a family of five and a career as local
small business owners, starting with their Coburg milk bar in 1963.
“My husband and I went into a milk bar business in Coburg right across the road from the old Kodak Factory,” she said.
“After that we owned a few other businesses like a newsagency, lunch kiosk and then a
specialist chocolate and coffee shop.
“We decided to retire and finally moved to Eltham to live in the peace and quiet for a change.”
These days Thelma lives at home with support from her Bolton Clarke team, keeping busy
with her five children and 10 grandchildren.
“I love hearing the stories about what everyone is up to and I’m so proud of the men and
women my children and grandchildren have all become,” she said.
“I always keep in touch with the family through emails and text messages now.”
Thelma’s daughter, Michelle Wiles says it’s a milestone the whole family were thrilled to celebrate with her.
“She takes everything in her stride and is always giving out love and kindness,” Michelle said.
“She has a bubbly and cheeky personality making her adored and loved by all.”
