BIRTHDAY: Helen Tennant Kerlin: Helen Tennant Kerlin, of Gilroy, celebrated her 100th birthday on April 20. She was honored at a gathering of 100 guests at Mama Mia’s Restaurant and attributes her longevity to two key factors: her Irish blood and an occasional “nip.”
In 1934, Helen married Bill Mims, with whom she had one daughter, Jeanne. The couple divorced and in 1948, she married William Kerlin, whose daughter Karen joined the family.
In addition to daughters Jeanne (Joe) Filice of Gilroy, and Karen (Bob) Olsen of Lincoln, Helen enjoys the company of her seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, a cat named Smokey and caregivers, Fusi and Linda.
HONORS
Evan Roascio
Evan Roascio, a 2011 graduate of San Andreas High School, completed basic combat training with the 343th Field Artillery Brigade in Fort Sill, Okla. He graduated from basic training on March 15, followed by five weeks of advanced training at Fort Benning, Ga. He will now be stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C. for jump school.
Roascio was honored with the Pvt. Luis Birtz Award during the graduation as a soldier who displayed personal courage, dedication and motivation. The award goes to the soldier who is most improved and it is in memory of Birtz, who put his own life at risk on Aug. 18, 1918 protecting his fellow soldiers against German troops.
Roascio is the son of Ryan Roascio of Hollister.
