Esther and Danny Appel Celebrate 75 Years of Love and Life at Century Village East

On December 24, Century Village East residents Esther and Danny Appel celebrated an extraordinary milestone: their 75th wedding anniversary. Both approaching their 96th birthdays in the months ahead, the couple reflected on nearly a century of shared love, laughter, and a zest for life that made them the envy of all who knew them. Their remarkable journey together was a testament to enduring love and a vibrant spirit that left a lasting mark on their family and community.

The Appel family’s ties to Century Village East (CVE) had a long and cherished history. It began with Danny’s parents, Sarah and Benjamin Appel, who moved into Farnham C #70 when the village first opened. In those early days, CVE was still taking shape, with dirt lots and freshly planted trees surrounding the few completed buildings. Sarah and Benjamin were among the first to call CVE home, living there full-time until their passing in 1995 and 1998, respectively.

In 1996, Esther and Danny carried forward the family tradition when they took over the Farnham C apartment as snowbirds, trading New York winters for the warmth of Florida. The couple quickly became active members of the CVE community. Danny’s passion for tennis and leadership led him to serve as President of the CVE Tennis Club for eight years, where he fostered camaraderie and a love for the game among fellow residents.

In 2002, Esther and Danny transitioned from Farnham C to 4074 Cambridge D, opting for an apartment with an elevator to accommodate their changing needs. Their connection to CVE deepened as the years passed, and in 2023, they officially became year-round residents, leaving New York behind for good.

Even as Danny’s mobility slowed, his scooter became a familiar sight at Saturday morning stickball games, where he enthusiastically cheered on players. Afterward, he and Esther often met for breakfast at the CVE Diner, a weekly tradition that brought them joy and connected them to the community they loved.

Their love story was a shining example of partnership, perseverance, and passion. At nearly 96 years old, Esther and Danny had experienced the highs and lows of life together while maintaining their enthusiasm and positive outlook. Whether supporting one another through challenges or engaging with friends and neighbors, they inspired everyone around them with their vitality and enduring love.

As they celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary, Esther and Danny Appel looked back on their incredible journey with pride and gratitude. Their legacy at CVE, rooted in family, friendship, and a passion for life, would be remembered for years to come. From their early days as snowbirds to their years as full-time residents, they enriched the lives of those around them and embodied the spirit of a life well-lived.

Here’s to Esther and Danny Appel—a couple who proved that love, laughter, and a shared journey could withstand the test of time.