A life well lived was celebrated at the Mamer Schlass when Mrs. Lea Bessi-Ripalti of Mamer was honored on her 100th birthday by Minister Max Hahn and Mayor Luc Feller, together with Alderman Ed Buchette and Alderwoman Francine Closener.
Mrs. Bessi-Ripalti, who has lived in Luxembourg since 1964, is still in great shape despite her advanced age, and was visibly moved when the Minister presented her with the Ordre du Mérite du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg in the presence of her family and friends. Afterwards, she was invited to cut the birthday cake, assisted by the Mayor.
Lea Bessi was born in 1924 in Pergola, Italy. After marrying Giorgio Ripalti, the couple moved to Luxembourg from Argentina. Mr. Ripalti had to work in Luxembourg during the Second World War as a prisoner of the Germans, and had fond memories of the country. He worked as a bricklayer and took part in the construction of the post office building in Luxembourg-City. The couple lived in Strassen for a long time with their two children, Elisa and Alessandro, before moving to Mamer in 2022. Since 2008, the jubilarian has been a widow.
She now lives with her daughter and her son-in-law, where she always looks forward to a visit from her great-granddaughter Lea. Her hobbies are still reading, television and family walks.
Her secret to longevity? Always go forward, never go back. Tanti Auguri Signora!
