A World War II vet who’s eaten breakfast at his local McDonald’s nearly every day for 36 years turned 100 last Friday – and celebrated the milestone birthday by driving himself to the fast food spot for a supersized party.
West Virginia resident Zan White and a group of his buddies dubbed the ROMEO club have been trading stories and hash browns for more than three decades inside the Elkins locations, WDTV reported.
The Golden Arches threw a birthday bash for the centenarian on Friday that included decorations and a birthday wish from the state’s governor.
“I’ve seen Zan every morning pretty much for the 24 years I’ve been working; it’s a joy to see him every morning, it’s one of the highlights of my day,” the restaurant’s area supervisor Mark Godwin told the station.
White, who was named after a former sheriff, has lived in Elkins his entire life except when he served in World War II. At some point, he started a group called the “Retired Old Men Eating Out” club or ROMEO for short that gathers at Mickey D’s, White explained.
The senior citizen impressively still has his driver’s license after he recently renewed it. Godwin credited McDonald’s for his longtime customer’s longevity.
“It’s definitely coming to McDonald’s every morning and having McDonald’s coffee,” Godwin said in a tongue in cheek remark.
West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice sent White a certificate to commemorate his milestone.
“Looking fondly back over the years, I am sure you are pleased to see the many lives you have touched in a positive way,” Justice wrote to him.
The local sheriff’s office jokingly sent him a ticket for 100 years of reckless driving and a plaque, while the city’s mayor declared it Zan White Day.
“I asked him what the secret was and he just grinned at me so I hope that means I have to smile a lot, so congratulations to Mr. White he’s a tremendous citizen that we have and we’re honored to have him,” Mayor Jerry Marco told WDTV.
Meanwhile White vowed to keep up the morning routine.
“I’ve been coming here for 36 years,” White reportedly said with a laugh. “I can’t stop now.”