He has seen many things change over the years, but one thing\u2019s for certain, Ruven Smukler (94) still enjoys coming to work.<\/p>\n
Ruven celebrated his 94th birthday on Wednesday, and he spent the momentous occasion with his colleagues at Ackermans Pharmacy.<\/p>
He has been employed at the pharmacy for 47 years.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen I started out at the pharmacy I was a dispenser, but these days I fill a more clerical role,\u201d Ruven said.<\/p>
\u201cThings have changed greatly from my younger days; I remember we used to have to measure and mix the medicines, now everything is computerised and the medicine just needs to be taken off the shelf.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ruven has lived in the same house in Cyrildene for the past 65 years and loves coming into work every day.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese days my feet are getting a bit tired and I find it difficult to get around, but I don\u2019t plan on retiring quite yet,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI have seen the pharmacy grow from a small staff of seven to what it is today and I still love coming in to work.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn fact, in all the years I have taken very little leave.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ruven was married to Anita for 63 years.<\/p>\n
She sadly passed away two years ago.<\/p>\n
He has two children, a son Ian and a daughter Elana Immelman, and eight grandchildren.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy family is wonderful and makes sure I am well looked after,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey come and see me often and they cook food for me every day so I am well-fed.<\/p>\n
\u201cUp to about three months ago I was still driving, but then I had a problem with my legs so now my daughter drives me to work and my son fetches me.\u201d<\/p>\n
For his birthday Ruven was spending the evening at Ian\u2019s house and having a special meal.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am very lucky to have reached this age,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am healthy and I have had a good life.\u201d<\/p>\n
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