Ken Marsh, a resident at The Spinney Care Home, marked the milestone surrounded by family members and fellow residents.
Ken, who served as an RAF truck driver during the war, was honoured with a celebration that reflected his lifelong love of aviation.
Samantha Carey, lifestyle coordinator at The Spinney, said: “Ken remains fascinated by planes and has regular visits from his friend Peter, who is a fellow aeromodeller.
“Recently, Peter brought in quite a large aircraft model that the two of them discussed in great detail for the whole visit.”
Ken’s daughter, Fiona, made him an aeroplane-themed cake, while the care home was decorated with banners and balloons.
A singer was also arranged to entertain guests.
Samantha said: “Understanding how important aeroplanes are to Ken helped us to personalise his birthday celebration.
“We displayed a collage with lots of old photos of Ken, many of which are of him enjoying his hobby.
“It’s wonderful to see someone so enthralled with a pastime that they’ve had since they were a child.”
Ken is a founding member of the West Essex Aeromodelling Club, established in 1947.
When asked about the secret to a long and happy life, he said: “Having a happy home life, being able to get along with people and avoiding trouble.”
Originally from Clapton, Ken lived in South Woodford for more than 70 years.
He married his late wife Margaret in 1954, after meeting her at the wedding of their lifelong friends.
The couple had two children, Fiona and Peter, and Ken now has five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Fiona Allan, Ken’s daughter, said: “I can’t thank Sam and all of the team at The Spinney enough for giving Dad such a special birthday celebration on his 100th birthday.
“It’s a huge relief that Dad has settled in so well to life at The Spinney.
“He enjoys the exercise classes, gets involved with the quiz sessions, and loves the trips out in the minibus.”
