Family, friends and neighbors gathered in the Aspen Creek Senior Living dining hall Friday to celebrate the 102nd birthday of Hanna Stormo.

During a party that included dancers from the Kenaitze Indian Tribe, recognition from two local governments and a singing performance by the woman of the hour, dozens gathered to greet Stormo — who found herself at the heart of many an embrace and photograph.

Stormo, according to a commendation offered by Kenai Peninsula Borough Mayor Peter Micciche and a proclamation offered by Soldotna Mayor Paul Whitney, was born in Akiak, near Bethel along the Kuskokwim River. She grew up with sled dogs and learned to hunt and fish from her mother. In the 1970s, she and her husband purchased a bar in Clam Gulch and renovated it into the Que’ana Bar, its name taken from Quyana, the Yup’ik word for “thank you.”

Whitney said Stormo’s bar was a home for laughter and “unforgettable gatherings,” that she built a beautiful life with her husband and six children — and many more grand- and great-grandchildren. Stormo, he said, “continues to inspire all towards a deep love for family, culture and community.”

“Hanna’s spirit of adventure, commitment to her community and culture, and legacy of a long life well-lived will forever be entwined with the story of Alaska,” Micciche said.

Stormo is known for her whistling and singing, Micciche said, as well as for crediting “a daily glass of pinot grigio for helping her keep up.”

A glass of pinot grigio was raised by Stormo in a toast after receiving both commendations. Staff at Aspen Creek said she still drinks a glass each day.

“It’s a very great feeling to have all these friends and relatives,” Stormo said. “I love every one of them, every one of you. Thank you so much, cheers!”

Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.

Hanna Stormo speaks during her 102nd birthday party at Aspen Creek Senior Living in Soldotna, Alaska, on Friday, May 30, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)

Kenai Peninsula Borough Mayor Peter Micciche presents a commendation to Hanna Stormo during her 102nd birthday party at Aspen Creek Senior Living in Soldotna, Alaska, on Friday, May 30, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)

Soldotna Mayor Paul Whitney presents a commendation to Hanna Stormo during her 102nd birthday party at Aspen Creek Senior Living in Soldotna, Alaska, on Friday, May 30, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)

Hanna Stormo speaks during her 102nd birthday party at Aspen Creek Senior Living in Soldotna, Alaska, on Friday, May 30, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)