On Saturday, December 28, there were a lot of people in the Canet municipal hall. The whole family gathered to celebrate Jean Escamez's 100th birthday a few days early.
Jean Escamez was born in Canet on January 3, 1925. His parents came from Spain to work in France. The family first settled in Canet where the two eldest were born, then in Roubia where the next 3 were born, making 5 children. Jean is the brother of François, father of Francis, well known in Canet where he lived.
Jean married Berthe Sanchez (aunt of Gérard Sanchez) in Canet but settled in Roubia where he created his farm. The couple had 4 children: Ghislaine in 1949, Danièle in 1951, Jean-Claude in 1956 and Alain in 1961 who gave them 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
The life of Jean and his wife is a life of hard work. Jean is a winegrower but also passionate about gardening and although upon retirement he dreams of returning to Canet, he nevertheless ultimately stays in Roubia and continues to help and support Alain who has taken over the farm. At 100 years old and since the death of his wife, he lives alone, with some of his children living nearby.
Jean is described by those around him as a smiling and very pleasant person to be around. He likes to read, without glasses, and has an excellent memory. For example, he is able to recite without fail many of La Fontaine's fables learned when he was at school (around 90 years ago!). He keeps himself informed of current events.
We wish Jean many more wonderful moments surrounded by his family.
France
