West Bend, Wi – There’s a certain breed of Midwestern woman who can outlive three presidential administrations and whip up a pot roast that could bring a grown man to tears. Audrey Yahr is that kind of woman. This past Sunday, she celebrated her 95th birthday—surrounded by family, friends, and even a surprise visit from a woman she used to babysit, who is now 79 herself. That’s right. Audrey’s not just old enough to be your grandma. She might be your babysitter’s babysitter.
Born on April 6, 1930, smack in the middle of the Great Depression, Audrey Peters (before she became a Yahr) came into the world on an 80-acre family farm across from what later became Bend Industries in West Bend, WI. “It was Paradise Drive and Highway 45 back then,” said Audrey. “There weren’t traffic lights but there was a tavern on the corner, Bauer’s Tavern. Yep, we took care of that corner.
“We lived in just a regular old stone house with a big front garden. Nothing fancy. But we always had something to eat; we didn’t even know we were poor,” said Audrey.
Sitting in her apartment at Cedar Ridge, Audrey spoke fondly of the past and gave thanks for her family.
“All four siblings are still alive, ranging in age from 88 to 95,” she said. “We’re not all in perfect health, but we’re here. We’re still kickin’. Not too high, but we’re kickin’.” If there’s a Yahr Family Cookbook of Longevity, it probably includes a lot of root vegetables, lard, and grit.
Audrey met her husband, Allan Yahr, in true small-town fashion—he lived just across the road. “Didn’t pay much attention to him until after high school,” she said. “He just lived there. Then one day I guess I noticed him.”
Audrey and Allen were married in 1952, built a life together on love, laughter, and a solid appreciation for Saturday morning egg runs into town. Allan passed away seven years ago after 65 years of marriage. “What drew me to him? I don’t know. That’s so long ago,” Audrey laughed.
The Yahr clan has grown over the years. Audrey has four kids, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
“My middle name is Aletta and my brand-new great-great-granddaughter is named Alleta,” she said. “I just couldn’t believe they picked that name. Alleta. I just couldn’t believe they thought that was a pretty name.”
As far as the birthday party, yes the entire family came. “They all came to the party. I didn’t even want a party!” Audrey said. “But two of the kids said I had to. So, we did. They threw the whole thing. I just showed up.”
Audrey still lives independently. Her door is always ajar – a signal for people to stop and come visit. “One day there was a knock, and a woman came in saying she was moving in down the hall,” said Audrey. “She said I babysat her. and her twin sister. Now she’s moved in next door. She’s 79! I remember those two. Cute as buttons.”
Asked if she feels 95, Audrey shook her head. “Nope. Not really. I go to the doctor once a year, eat healthy, and I don’t mess with too much nonsense.”
Audrey takes solace in the fact she raised her kids to be good people, and she is living proof that the Midwest has always known the secret: hard work, homegrown food, and a whole lot of heart.
Happy 95th, Audrey. The farm girl on Paradise Drive.
