105-year-old celebrates birthday by riding along with firefighters, police

PLYMOUTH, Minn. (WCCO) - A 105-year-old Minnesota woman celebrated her birthday in style by riding along with both firefighters and police.

Hootie Wakefield, 105, has a special bond with first responders. Police officers and firefighters have been celebrating every birthday with her since she turned 102. This year, she celebrated by riding along with both departments.

“She just loves all of the fire department and the police department. They’ve come to all her birthdays,” said Kathy Theissen, Wakefield’s daughter.

Wakefield’s biggest cheerleaders gathered Thursday at her home at The Waters of Plymouth, an assisted living facility, to wish her well ahead of her big ride. A few weeks ago, she did a police ride-along, so now, it was the Plymouth Fire Department’s turn – with siren and all.

“Well, it makes her happy. It makes me happy,” Theissen said. “I just love it. It is fun to see mother, how joyous she is.”

The 105-year-old also got to lounge around inside the break room at Plymouth Fire Station 2 and got an up-close look at the trucks and some of the firefighters’ gear.

“To give her a ride on the firetruck finally, she’s so appreciative. Such a wonderful, vibrant lady,” said Steve Marti with the fire department.

After a “fabulous” day, Wakefield is already planning ahead for the years to come.

“They’re fun, and the firetruck people are fun,” she said.

Wakefield’s birthday was actually back in December, but first responders are just now getting around to fulfilling her ride-along wishes.

Copyright 2024 WCCO via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.