Wheatland Village Celebrates Centenarians and WWII Veterans in Walla Walla

Residents at Wheatland Village, a Generations community, recently celebrated remarkable milestones of age, history, and courage. The Walla Walla senior living community hosted two heartfelt events: one honoring nine centenarians for National Centenarian Day, and another recognizing senior veterans who took flight once more through the national nonprofit Dream Flights.

Honoring Nine Residents Over 100 Years Old

On September 22, Wheatland Village gathered to celebrate its oldest residents—nine individuals who have each lived more than a century of extraordinary life. The group included 108-year-old Sidelle Stiller, who was joined by her son Ron and fellow residents for the event. Stiller, known for her humor and warmth, shared conversation and laughter with her friend Susan Maudlin, reflecting on a life spanning more than a century of change and achievement.

“These residents are living history,” said Ann Adrian, Senior Executive Director of Wheatland Village. “It’s such a joy to celebrate their stories, resilience, and wisdom. They remind us what it means to live fully at every age.”

The celebration, part of National Centenarian Day, highlighted the community’s dedication to honoring longevity and quality of life. Family members, team members, and neighbors joined in to share cake, music, and memories—making the event a cherished moment for everyone who attended.

Veterans Take to the Skies with Dream Flights

Just days before the centenarian celebration, several senior veterans from Wheatland Village experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at Walla Walla Airport. In partnership with Dream Flights, a national nonprofit that provides free flights to senior veterans, eight local heroes – ncluding 104-year-old Navy veteran Fran Millistefr—climbed aboard restored Stearman biplanes, the same model used to train pilots during World War II.

Since 2011, Dream Flights has honored more than 7,500 veterans across the country, helping them reconnect with the thrill and pride of service. For Millistefr, who flew B-24 missions in Guadalcanal, the flight was deeply personal.

“It was perfect,” Millistefr said after his flight. “Very nice, very nice. It brought back a lot of energy from when I first joined the Navy.”

Millistefr shared stories of his wartime service – ncluding an unexpected meeting with a young John F. Kennedy, long before he became president. His reflections were both emotional and inspiring for everyone present.

A Community Rooted in Respect and Remembrance

For Executive Director Adrian, honoring veterans carries special meaning.

“Both of my grandfathers were World War II veterans, and my father served in the Korean War,” she said. “The dog tags I wear belonged to my father, and every time I’m with veterans, I wear them in his honor.”

Each veteran who takes a Dream Flight signs the tail of the aircraft, leaving a lasting mark of their service. It’s a powerful tradition that connects generations—past, present, and future.

Living History at Wheatland Village

The events at Wheatland Village this September were more than celebrations—they were living reminders of endurance, gratitude, and community. Whether sharing stories of wartime service or decades of family memories, residents continue to inspire those around them with their courage and grace.

As the number of World War II veterans and centenarians naturally declines, communities like Wheatland Village play a vital role in preserving their stories. These moments of honor and recognition ensure their legacy continues to uplift future generations.

About Wheatland Village

Located in the heart of Walla Walla, Washington, Wheatland Village is a vibrant senior living community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. As part of Generations LLC, Wheatland Village is built around the values of family, integrity, and personalized care—creating a place where residents truly feel at home.

To learn more about life at Wheatland Village or to schedule a tour, visit our Wheatland Village Community page or call us directly today!