You can do a lot in a lifetime—especially if that lifetime spans 105 years.
Dora Grove was born May 21, 1914, 105 years ago today, and she will celebrate that milestone with her family where she resides at Edgewater Place in Plain City.
“She is someone who really loves life,” said Don Grove, her son.
Dora is referred to as “First Lady of Edgewater” and not for any political reasons. She was literally the first.
“She moved in before it was fully open in 2009 when she was 96,” her son said. “It was a way for the staff to ‘practice’ before more residents came there. She had actually just stopped driving.”
Dora is originally from Sunbury but moved to Bexley with her family when she was young. While there, she took a position as a server at the Governor’s Mansion.
“At that time, it wasn’t yet the Governor’s Mansion. There are a number of large homes in that area and she happened to work in that one,” Grove said. “It’s interesting to have that connection to a place that became what it is.”
She also worked for the YMCA and Lazarus Department Store. Dora and her husband, George Grove, moved to New Jersey when he accepted a job with White Castle Systems. Dora joined in and worked for the company as a waitress. They were there for a short time and returned to Ohio where they raised three children: Adelle, Don and Ed.
When her and her husband retired, they split there time between Florida and Lake Erie where Dora indulged in her endless hobbies.
“She loved to stay active,” Grove said. “She collected seashells and used them to make mirrors and other decorations. My wife and I probably have three or for of those still around the house.”
Dora also enjoyed fishing in both Lake Erie and Florida, cooking and playing cards. In fact, cards and bingo are currently her go-to activities.
She will be celebrating her birthday with family over cake and ice cream as well as her grand-dog, Maddie, who will also be 105 (in dog years).