Fulton County's oldest living veteran celebrates 102nd birthday

Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 11:07 AM

By Wes Dehne

Joined by family and friends, Ben Severns celebrated his 102nd birthday Monday at Wynnfield Crossing with special recognition from Rochester Mayor Trent Odell.

Fulton County's oldest living veteran, Ben Severns, celebrated his 102nd birthday Monday at Wynnfield Crossing.

The monumental milestone received special recognition from Rochester Mayor Trent Odell, who proclaimed Jan. 6 Ben Severns Day and attended his birthday party to present him with a certificate of recognition.

Severns had the opportunity to sit down with the mayor and share a few stories from his time in the Navy to building a large sailing vessel and writing a book. Odell was able to share with him a picture of the Times Theater's marquee, displaying his birthday message.

Odell noted that turning 102 years old is quite a feat in itself, but added that Severns' service to his country makes it even more special. On display at his party were various pieces of memorabilia from his time in the Navy and sailing.

Severns served in the Navy from 1943-1946 during World War II. He received several medals during his service and returned home to work at Singer Manufacturing for 23 years. He and his wife lived for two and a half years on the sailing vessel he built, cruising the Great Lakes, the Eastern Seaboard and the Bahamas.

Additionally, Severns wrote a book at age 92, "The Life And Adventures Of A Country Lad: Growing Up On The Farm In The Early 1900s," which was published in July 2015 and is available for purchase on Amazon.

"He's one of those guys you'd love to just stick a flash drive into his ear and pull out all the information that he's got in his head," Odell said. "I love talking to people who have those types of experiences because they can share so much with so many stories."

He added that he was anxious to buy Severns' book and hopefully get him to sign it.

Check out the following gallery for photos captured at Severns' birthday party: