Page 2 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 Jon E. Norton Leading a Life of Giving to Community “Older adults want to be happy living in their own home. I give to Mystic Valley Elder Services because people want to be at home when they receive care!” exclaimed Jon E. Norton. Mr. Norton has served on the Mystic Valley Elder Services Board of Directors for the past two decades. He is a firm believer in the importance of care options and personal choice for older adults and adults living with disabilities. “Home care is very, very important. Getting the right help and good help makes it possible for people to stay in their homes as they grow older,” shares Mr. Norton. The City of Everett has always been “home” to Mr. Norton. He was raised in Everett and made certain that his mother, as she grew older, could remain in Everett in an accessible condominium with the care she needed until her death. So, when asked to serve on the Mystic Valley Elder Services Board by Mayor David Ragucci of Everett in 2000, Mr. Norton readily agreed. Jon E. Norton He continues to generously give his time and donations to this day – “I want to know what I can do to help people. I think my role as a Board Member and as a donor can ensure that older adults will get the care they need and be taken care of the right way.” Mr. Norton is someone who has led a life of giving to others. He influenced the lives of many 4th, 5th and 6th graders through his 35-year career as a public elementary school teacher, first in Burlington and then Melrose. This was followed by his career of public service for the City of Everett, serving as Chairman of the Conservation Commission for many years. He continues to serve on this commission, having proudly never missed a meeting. He also served as Everett’s City Recycling Coordinator for years. When asked about the future, Mr. Norton said that he believes donors know that Mystic Valley Elder Services does important work that must continue. He also shared that legacy giving is definitely very important for donors to consider. Leonard Florence Center for Living resident Eleanor Karp turns 106 CHELSEA – If anyone knows the secret to longevity, it is Eleanor Karp, a much-beloved resident at the Leonard Florence Center for Living. Eleanor turned 106 on September 1. What a milestone event for an extraordinary woman! Born on September 1, 1914, in Dorchester, Eleanor was the youngest of three. She loved school, dancing and socializing with her many friends. In fact, Eleanor met her husband, Henry Karp, through her girlfriend, who ultimately turned out to be her sister-in-law! It was love at fi rst sight. Eleanor and Henry married on June 26, 1938. Before starting a family, Eleanor worked at Schrafft’s, the renowned candy company in Charlestown. After her sons, Michael and Harvey, were born, Eleanor devoted her time to running the household. Celebrations played a huge role in their lives. “The Jewish holidays were legendary in our house,” said son Harvey Karp. “We had at least 30 people, with the tables extending into three rooms.” Added Harvey, “My mom is an amazing cook; her brisket, matzah ball soup, gefi lte fi sh and stuff ed knadles were the best I have ever eaten. She even made her own horseradish!” Eleanor and Henry lived in Everett and Malden for most of their married life. They led a highly active social life, frequently entertaining friends and family. Henry was one of eight siblings – four boys and four girls – and Eleanor was extremely close to all of them. She organized huge family outings every summer. Eleanor and Henry were married for 46 wonderful years. Sadly, Henry passed away in 1984 at 74 years of age. Adored by her children – son Pictured from left to right are Harvey, Henry, Eleanor and Michael Karp. Harvey and his wife Jeanne and son Michael and his wife Charlene – Eleanor cherishes her four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She presides over the family with love, warmth and humor. In 2010, Eleanor moved from the Jack Satter House in Revere to the Cohen Florence Levine Estates Assisted Living in Chelsea. Both staff and residents have adored her! She has loved ELEANOR KARP the bus trips and visits to area restaurants, especially Jimmy’s Steakhouse, The Continental and Kowloon. Meals in the dining room at Cohen Florence Levine Estates have been the highlight of her day. “Eleanor is a truly remarkable woman,” said daughter-inlaw Jeanne Karp. “She is generous, loving, sharp and fun to be around. Actually, I can’t imagine having a better mother-in-law.” “Eleanor brings a sense of warmth to everyone she comes into contact with,” said Leonard Florence Center for Living Recreation Program Director Joseph “Coty” Miller. “An amazing cook herself, she is always helping the chefs tweak their recipes to perfection.” Miller described Eleanor as full of life. “Eleanor possesses wisdom, intellect and wit. Her stories about her life are overwhelmingly joyful and insightful. In short, Eleanor Karp is truly one of kind.” Harvey and Jeanne Karp are thrilled Eleanor is a resident at the Leonard Florence Center for Living. “We feel extremely fortunate she is living in such a beautiful building with a private room and bath, but even more importantly, we are deeply grateful to the incredible staff at the Center,” said Jeanne Karp. “They genuinely care about her.” When asked the secret to her longevity, Eleanor is very matter of fact. “Who would ever have expected me to live to 106?” she asked. “Yet here I am!”
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