The World’s oldest living man, John Tinniswood, celebrated his 112th birthday on Monday in the UK, according to the BBC. Born in Liverpool in 1912, Tinniswood became the world’s oldest living man in April, following the death of 114-year-old Juan Vicente Pérez Mora in Venezuela.
Living in a care home in Southport, Tinniswood believes that his longevity is just a “matter of chance.” He mentioned that he had been quite active and did a lot of walking in his younger years, but he feels he is “no different” from anyone else.
He has lived through major historical events, including both World Wars. Tinniswood served in the Army Pay Corps during WWII and is now the oldest surviving male WWII veteran. He worked as an accountant for Shell and BP before retiring in 1972.
Tinniswood met his wife Blodwen at a dance in Liverpool, and they married in 1942. They had one daughter, Susan, born in 1943. Blodwen died in 1986 after 44 years of marriage.
He does not follow any special diet, other than enjoying fish and chips on Fridays. Since turning 100, Tinniswood has received annual birthday cards from the British monarch, first Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III.
Reflecting on the changes in the world, Tinniswood thinks it is “no better” than it was during his childhood.
The oldest person ever recorded was Jiroemon Kimura from Japan, who lived 116 years and 54 days. Currently, the world’s oldest living person is 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka from Japan.