Few would guess that Clifford Bartells is a centenarian. Yet today is his 101st birthday. The 45-year Island resident said he “couldn’t believe” he would be celebrating 101 on Oct. 14. Actually, he doesn’t give his age much thought.

“It just happened,” he said.

Perhaps the secret to living so long is staying active and healthy. Bartells goes for a walk every day, usually in Pioneer Park, near his South-end home.

“It’s my favorite place,” he explained.

Bartells is a familiar face on the wooded park trails, walking with his cane in hand. Usually, he walks along the park’s outer gravel loop and then back to his house.

“It’s about one mile,” he reckoned.

The Islander, who used to manage the American Can Company’s Seattle factory, also spends much time in his garden. Weeding mostly. The hobby keeps him active throughout the year.

Although he lives independently, Bartells does not feel lonely.

“I have wonderful neighbors on each side,” he said.

Bartells will be celebrating his birthday with family and friends. His daughter and son-in-law will be coming up from Tacoma to throw him a small party. The centenarian’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren will also be there, along with some longtime friends from Eastern Oregon.

“I go fishing with these friends every spring in Eastern Oregon,” Bartells said. “My whole family goes over there with me.”

Today they will be coming to him. After all, it’s not every day that you turn 101.