October 7, 1931, marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey for Agnes Anna Corns, affectionately known as "Aggie" to those closest to her. On Saturday, October 7, 2023, Aggie celebrated her 92nd birthday at the Pepper Steak Restaurant located in Highland, CA alongside a large group of her family and friends. At the age of 92, Aggie reflects on a life filled with cherished memories, profound wisdom, and boundless love for her family.
Aggie was born in the charming town of Artesia, California, to Alice and Klaus Schaap. She grew up alongside three brothers and two sisters: Grace, Dirk, Jim, Walter, and Annie. Her early years were spent in the picturesque surroundings of Hynes, now known as Claremont, California. At the age of 12, Aggie moved to Bellflower for a three-year stint, and then moved to San Bernardino, where she has called home ever since.
Aggie attended Colton High School, graduating with the class of 1949. Although her path initially led her to business college, it was a fateful encounter that changed the course of her life. It was there that she met the love of her life, William, otherwise known as Bill. The couple's enduring love story began when Aggie initially turned down Bill’s two younger brothers where they then set up Bill and Aggie on a blind date. In their journey together, Aggie and Bill were blessed with a daughter named Janet. Their family grew to include two grandchildren, Ricke and Jenny, and six great-grandchildren: Brandon, Ajah, Savannah, Laylah, Ethan, and Myah. For Aggie, family has always been the cornerstone of her joy and fulfillment.
Aggie's passions have been woven into the tapestry of her life. An avid baker and culinary enthusiast, she spends her leisure time perusing recipes, whipping up delectable treats, and finding solace in watching her television. Aggie's love for sports, particularly football and baseball, led her to become a devoted fan of the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Camping and travel were pivotal to Aggie and Bill's shared adventures. From serene beachside camping retreats to the rugged beauty of the High Sierras, their journeys together were marked by camaraderie and natural splendor. Aggie would go camping with her husband and would always bring others with her on these trips. She never went without others, whether that be her nieces and nephews, or just some of her closest friends. It was always such a wonderful time. Aggie and her husband would go up to Mono Village for 3 – 4 months out of the year to work there for the summer for 5 years. She’s camped in Big Bear, Bridgeport, Silverwood, the High Sierras and at the beach. As well as traveling all over the entire United States. Among their travels, the Kennedy Space Center stands out to Aggie's in her memories due to the place being so interesting.
As a matriarch, Aggie instilled invaluable lessons in her family. Respect for oneself and others, along with the pursuit of education, being the cornerstone values she emphasized. "No one can take away your education," she would say, leaving an indelible mark on her loved ones.
For Aggie, her legacy is not measured in material possessions, but in the honesty, selflessness, and joy she cultivated in those she held dear. She hopes to be remembered as a source of inspiration, a guiding light, and a beloved figure who encouraged her family to relish every moment with cherished friends and loved ones.
As Aggie celebrated her 92nd birthday, her life stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and the simple joys that make life extraordinary. Her story will forever be etched in the hearts of those who have been fortunate enough to know her. Happy birthday, Aggie!