Ballard Big Picture: Longtime Sunset Hill resident turns 100

Sunset Hill resident Viola Gustafson turns 100 Aug. 28. And, to what does she credit her longevity? Healthy eating? Regular exercise? Stress-free living? No. Nope. And, not a chance.

"I have a vodka collins before dinner every night," Gustafson said. "I have for 50 years."

Her doctor said a little alcohol can keep her arteries clear, but good family genes don't hurt either, Gustafson's son Gary said.

Viola Sells was born in Auburn, Wash., and grew up in Kent. She married Hank Gustafson in 1935 before moving to Sunset Hill in 1943.

After 67 years in Sunset Hill, it's still a nice, quiet neighborhood, Gustafson said and agreed with Gary that the nearby water helps it stay cool in the summer.

Gustafson has a son, a daughter, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. And even at 100, she still does her weekly grocery shopping and cares for Gary.

"The time goes fast," she said. "I don't feel any older than I did when I was 60."

Ballard Big Picture is a column of scenes from around the neighborhood. If you would like to submit a photo for use on this site and in the Ballard News-Tribune, please send it to Michael Harthorne at michaelh@robinsonnews.com. Be sure to include your name and information about your photo.