Mary Zilz. Photo from Tribal Observer / Saginaw Chippewa Tribe

Mary Zilz, the oldest member of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan, celebrates her 100th birthday this month.

Zilz was born on June 18, 1915. Some of her fondest memories come from her time with her grandparents -- her maternal grandfather was a preacher who gave sermons in Chippewa and English.

"I still sometimes sing songs like ‘Just as I Am’ in Chippewa - they are soft and melodious and have a different rhythm,' Zilz told The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun.

Zilz's family and friends are throwing her a birthday celebration on June 28. It was supposed to be a surprise but she read about it in her church's bulletin.

“I know we will have a fun time," she told the paper.

Get the Story:
Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe celebrates 100th birthday of oldest living member (The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun 6/16)