Photo Credit: Town of Marion
MARION — Roy Wilson “Will” Wingate, Marion’s eldest resident, was honored last week with the Boston Post Cane in celebration of his 101st birthday.
According to Marion Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman, Wingate was presented with the cane by the Marion Select Board during a ceremony attended by his daughter; his 100-year-old wife, Ann; family and friends; state Rep. Mark Sylvia; and Select Board Chair John W. Hoagland, Vice Chair Carleton “Toby” Burr Jr. and Clerk Randy L. Parker attended the ceremony.
Parker and Rep. Sylvia gave remarks honoring Wingate’s life.
“A century of life in and of itself is an achievement, but a life so richly lived, devoted to family, service, hard work and adventure, deserves special recognition,” Parker said.
The Boston Post Cane tradition began in 1909, when the now defunct Boston Post newspaper distributed about 700 gold-headed ebony canes to communities across New England to honor their eldest residents. Each cane is topped with a 14-karat gold head inscribed, “Presented by The Boston Post to the oldest citizen of (name of town) — To Be Transmitted.” Gorman said the canes belong to the municipalities and are passed from one eldest resident to the next.
Photo Credit: Town of Marion
Wingate was born May 16, 1925, in Arlington, New Jersey. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Air Force, where he intercepted covert intelligence involving foreign-language communications. He later worked in construction management, creating opportunities for residents in New Bedford, Virginia and Florida.
Wingate and his wife have traveled to 28 countries. Their favorite destination was Scotland.
When the couple was asked about the secret to longevity, Ann Wingate answered, “Being married for 71 years.”
The Wingates raised five children and have seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Rep. Sylvia described the couple as Marion’s “power couple.”
“It is our privilege to honor a life of service, integrity, family, curiosity and contribution,” Parker said. “May Mr. Wingate’s story continue to inspire generations to come.”
