Koop celebrates 100th birthday

As he prepares to begin another century of life in Iowa, William (Bill) Koop thinks his first 100 years were built on a simple foundation.

“I tried to be a persistent hard worker,” Koop said.

Koop will reach the milestone age on Tuesday, June 15. Greeting cards can be sent to Koop at 1008 2nd Avenue, Room 304, Ackley, Iowa, 50601.

Koop has held several jobs in his life, including working at Stockdale’s Austinville Garage, Ackley Farm Service, the canning plant in Ackley, Monsanto, Jack Betten Carpentry and Anderson’s Flowers in Ackley.

While birthday parties weren’t common when he grew up, he’s enjoyed several birthday parties as an adult that included a hot air balloon ride and a chance to ride in a convertible for a day.

Koop has two children, five grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

“I loved playing with them and also enjoyed watching them play sports,” Koop said.

Now living at Grand Jivanté in Ackley, he enjoys playing cards, dominoes and board games, watching AGWSR softball games, and taking naps.

His go-to TV shows are “Wheel of Fortune”, “Bonanza” and “Gunsmoke”.

His advice for the younger generations is as succinct as the secret to his longevity.

“Stick together as a community,” Koop said.