Smiltene Resident Rūta Ēķe Still Sings and Stays Connected at 90

Rūta Ēķe, a resident of Smiltene, celebrated her 90th birthday on July 10, yet her vitality suggests a much younger spirit. The senior still sings in the mixed senior choir "Mežābele" of Smiltene District Cultural Centre and in the Smiltene Lutheran congregation ensemble. She actively uses a smartphone, participates in WhatsApp group chats, and reads books, especially domestic and crime novels. She subscribes to the local newspaper and a magazine, while friends deliver library books to her home.

Ēķe lives alone on the third floor of an apartment building in Kalnamuiža after her husband Valdis passed away. She finds joy in being around people and communicating. Her birthday was celebrated at the rural house "Kalbakas" with close relatives and friends from the choir.

For Ēķe, the greatest value in life is sincere, friendly relationships. She appreciates good ties with her son Māris and daughter-in-law Biruta in Lubāna, and with her grandchildren Artūrs (in England) and Ieva (in America), with whom she communicates via video calls. She realized the importance of family support when she married into the Omuļi family and felt the warmth of her in-laws.

Ēķe originates from Jaunbilska, from the "Dārziņi" home. After marriage, she moved to Smiltene parish and worked as a milkmaid at the Smiltene State Farm Technical School farm. She received honorary certificates and medals, including the Order of the Red Banner of Labour, for her work. Additionally, she was known as an excellent hostess, baking treats for various events. Choir member Jadviga Cimdiņa notes that Ēķe still bakes delicious cakes.

The choir has a tradition of greeting members on their birthdays with songs. On July 10, a song "Skaista ir jaunība" ("Beautiful is Youth") performed by Ilmārs Dzenis was dedicated to her. About her philosophy, Ēķe says: "Everyone lives according to their own mind."