Bonnie Bowling — RVRHC’s first resident — turns 100

Courtesy photo River Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center paid special tribute to Bonnie Bowling on her 100th birthday on Jan. 19.

Skilled nursing facility honors special resident on her milestone birthday

DEL NORTE — River Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center paid special tribute to Bonnie Bowling on her 100th birthday, inviting residents at the facility to celebrate with Bonnie at a festive party, including family, friends and a large birthday cake.

Born on Jan. 19, 1923, in Port Arthur, Texas, to parents Floy and Ralph Rachal, Bowling spent most of her life on the Gulf Coast of Texas. She is the mother of three and came to Del Norte to be close to her son John Butler and daughter-in-law Betty, who live in South Fork.

Karen Martinez, River Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center’s administrator, pointed out that Bowling was the first resident of the skilled nursing facility when it opened in 2017, back when it was still called River Valley Inn.

“Bonnie is such an inspiration to her family and friends,” said Martinez. “She’s been a favored resident since she first moved in over five years ago, and the entire facility was excited to celebrate her milestone 100th birthday. The party marked an incredible century of memories and experiences.

“We are grateful to have Bonnie in our lives,” she added, “and we look forward to many more celebrations at River Valley. Bonnie is our first resident and holds a special place in our hearts.”

River Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center is a 60-bed skilled nursing facility in Del Norte, providing long-term care, short-term care, rehabilitation, occupational therapy, physical therapy, rehab-to-home, speech therapy, palliative care and respite care. The center is currently accepting new admissions for short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. For more information, contact the facility at 719-657-1105 or visit the River Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center at www.rivervalleyrhc.com.