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Laidler, of Mayfield Township, will have lived through 10 decades of life and love Tuesday when he turns 100 years old. Imagine being part of two different centuries and seeing the birth of technology, cars, planes, television, and even indoor plumbing.

And by his side as she's been for most of his life, is his wife Merle Laidler. She will be 99 in February; the couple has been married for 79 years.

Merle, their seven Lapeer County raised children, all in their 60s and 70s, and other family and friends, are planning a celebration of Harold's long life on Saturday.

Harold, born in 1909, has lived in Lapeer County for 95 years, moving from Bay City as a young boy. Harold and Merle are high school sweethearts and graduates of Dryden High School. They were married May 5, 1930, near the beginning of the Great Depression.

The couple raised their children working the fields of the family farm. In birth order their children are, Delmar Laidler, of Oscoda, Keith Laidler, of Holland, James Laidler, of Lapeer, Jerry Laidler, of Florida, Bev Nieznay-Laidler, of Elba Township, Belva Currier, of Texas and Paul Laidler, of Fenton.

Harold was a farmer in a time before tractors, so he worked the land with a team of horses. It was the creation of the tractor that Harold believes most significantly influenced their lives.

Their children have fond memories of growing up in Lapeer with their dad.

"My parents have a wonderful sense of humor, and they have passed it on down to their kids," said Bev. "That's a great attribute of theirs."

Life was very different in Lapeer County so many years ago. The Laidlers had electricity, but their bathrooms were outdoors. Water had to be carried in from the well to the house, said Bev.

"When we were kids we would get on our bicycles and drive five miles down the road to see our school friends," said Paul. "People didn't lock the doors on their homes. We didn't hear about any of the problems with kidnapping and home-invasions."

Their strong belief in God was a staple in their lives.

"In our growing-up years, our parents were always church-goers," said Currier. "Their children heard them being prayed for every day. I just wish everybody could experience and know that somebody cared for them enough that they prayed for them every day."

Harold retired from the farm and finally had time to polish his golf swing and bowling techniques. He also had a strong passion for hunting.

"All he needed was one shot," said Keith. "He used to brag about that."

Harold and Merle also traveled to Florida many years during winter and now spend the colder months visiting Currier at her Texas home.

At 100 years, Harold is the longest living member of his family. He credits his longevity and good health to, "trusting in the Lord."

"That's the one thing he always remembers and it's the one answer he always gives, 'serving the Lord,'" said Bev.

Not only have Harold and Merle been able to watch their children grow and have kids of their own, they also have great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren as well.

"I think the neatest thing about the two of them is they've been able to attend the 50th wedding anniversary for two of their children," said Currier of her parents.

Harold's 100th birthday party is planned for 2-4 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 10 ) at the Mayfield Township Hall. Anyone who would like to stop by to pay their respects and enjoy cake and ice cream is welcome. Those who are unable to attend may send birthday cards.

"My dad would love to get birthday cards," said Bev. "It's not everyday you turn 100 years old."