Local World War II veteran celebrates 101st birthday

WEST SENECA, N.Y. (WIVB) -- John Barbaro, a World War II Navy veteran, celebrated his 101st birthday with friends and loved ones by his side.

"I think it's very nice that we can be here and to help celebrate," said Nancy Nagowski, John's daughter. "It's amazing that he's made it that long -- it's a blessing."

John shares the same birthday as the United States Navy, which was founded 250 years ago.

During World War II, he was an engineering officer and kept the ship he was on working and sailing properly. Afterwards, he continued to stay connected with the ship's crew with a reunion every year.

"We would just bring up old times and what we were doing for the past year and just reacquaint ourselves," said Barbaro.

Barbaro, who is originally from Olean, returned to Western New York and eventually became a shop teacher at Lancaster High School, was active with the Knights of Columbus, and loves golf.

While studying in Buffalo for his degree, he would take a bus home to Olean, and that's where he met Millie, his wife of more than 70 years. They now both reside at Eden Heights of West Seneca.

His secret to living to be 101 years old? He says he had no specific ways of living -- he just made sure he did the right thing at the right time.

"I just went by the rules of life and doing things the way they should be done," said Barbaro.