Beryl Wilson (nee Cockman) at her 90th birthday party at Cockman House.
Camera IconBeryl Wilson (nee Cockman) at her 90th birthday party at Cockman House. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Woodvale: family surprises Beryl on 90th birthday

Lucy JarvisWanneroo Times

ABOUT 60 family members and friends gathered for a surprise picnic to celebrate Beryl Wilson’s 90th birthday where she grew up, Cockman House.

Beryl was born on November 27, 1926 to Ross and Ruth Cockman, and her mother died when she was two years old.

“As Ross and his brother took off prospecting out Kalgoorlie way, Beryl and her brother Kelvin were raised by their Aunty Francis, thus spending many of their childhood years at Cockman House,” her son Barry Wilson said.

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“Beryl married Ronald Wilson in 1947, and went on to have five sons.

“All of the boys, except Alan, who lives in Colombia, were at the picnic party on Sunday, to celebrate.

“Three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren flew down from Darwin and Kununurra, making the surprise party an even bigger surprise.”

Mr Wilson said the November 27 gathering in Woodvale was missing his uncle Kelvin, who died recently.

“The weather was perfect, with a mild sea breeze managing to keep most of the flies at bay,” he said.

“The guests all brought a plate of food to share and the spread was somewhat lavish.

“Beryl and other guests spent some time exploring and reminiscing their early days at Cockman House, which has been beautifully restored and now stands as a museum.

“At 90 years of age, Beryl still enjoys quite good health, and lives independently in Balcatta, although she does ride her trusty mobility scooter to the Northlands Shopping Centre.

“The family would like to thank everyone who attended the party celebration, making it a wonderful day.

“We would like to especially thank Margaret Cockman, who spread the word in the Wanneroo area.

“Plans are already underway for the next big one – 100 years old.”