Lorraine Reinpold, a 91-year-old matriarch from Hillsboro, North Dakota, is on the verge of celebrating a remarkable family milestone: the arrival of her 100th great-grandchild. With a sprawling family of 164 members, including 53 grandchildren, Reinpold has dedicated her life to nurturing her extensive lineage.
Family gatherings for birthdays, holidays, and weddings are a grand affair for Reinpold. She often reflects on her journey, noting the joy her family brings to her life. “I am so thankful for my family. I don’t know what I would do without my family,” she expressed while showcasing a giant quilt adorned with photos of her children and grandchildren. This quilt, crafted with love, features the names of her grandchildren in order of age, a testament to her deep investment in family traditions.
Growing up on a farm in Hillsboro, Reinpold and her late husband, Rudy Reinpold, raised eight daughters and one son. “Best years of my life,” she commented nostalgically about motherhood, recalling the 70 years she spent cultivating a garden alongside her children.
To keep track of her large family, Reinpold maintains an organized list that includes details about her great-grandchildren. “All the girls are in red and the boys are in black,” she explained, indicating her meticulous approach to family management. With numerous grandchildren currently expecting, Reinpold anticipates the arrival of several new additions soon, noting, “One is due in December, another in May, and another in June.”
As she eagerly awaits the phone call announcing the arrival of her 100th great-grandchild, Reinpold humorously adds, “I jokingly tell everyone, ‘We are working for the Guinness Book.'” The excitement surrounding this milestone is palpable, as her family continues to grow.
Managing birthday cards and Christmas presents for her extensive family has become a challenge for Reinpold. “I can’t keep up with them all,” she laughed, acknowledging the complexity of her family dynamics.
Having been a widow for over 30 years since her husband’s passing in the 1980s, Reinpold often reflects on how much she wishes Rudy could witness their family’s growth. “My husband and I always wanted a big family, and I guess we did. I just wish he was here to see it all,” she stated, revealing the emotional depth of her family journey.
As the anticipation builds, Reinpold remains discreet about which grandchild will bring her great-grandchild number 100 this spring. Yet, her pride in her family shines through every word. “I am so proud of my big family,” she concluded, encapsulating the essence of her life’s work and love.
