By Carol DOWD
The oldest of 175 residents of the St. Francis Home is celebrating her 100th birthday today. She is Miss Cora Cofske, a Worcester Resident for 88 years.
Born in Sorel, Quebec, Canada, January 4 1861, Miss Cofske came here when she was twelve years old. She is the only living member of a family of sixteen children.

175 Relatives
Her parents were Celina Tate and Joseph Cofske. Her mother passed away at the age of 96 and her father at 97. She is proud of her 175 living relatives, many of who are members of religious orders.
The unusually alert woman, who speaks only French, remembers her great-grandfather and can relate many stories that he told as a member of the Russian army. She recalls many incidents in her youth and remembers distinctly the seventy-fifth anniversary of her mother and father's marriage.

Excelent Health
Miss Cofske enjoys excellent health. She takes no medication and receives excellent reports from doctors regularly. A high spirited woman, she is the sweetheart of her ward. Sister Mary Margaret de Cortone said that Miss Cofske helps other members of the home and makes her own bed each morning. She is an ardent fan of Art Linkletter and watches his show on television daily.
Conscious of style, she wears glasses, not only for reading, but because she feels that they flatter her. She curls her hair each night.
Miss Cofske received innumerable birthday cards from friends and relatives.
A religious woman, she spends much of her time reading the Bible and attends Mass regularly at the home. She is a founder of Holy Name of Jesus Church.
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Zuidema of Sutton will honor their aunt at a party at the home today. Miss Cofske will also be honored at an open house Sunday at 6 p.m. in the home