The decor in Richard Bird's office suggests this is a man who does not look backward. There are no mementos or plaques on the walls save one: a certificate that authorized him to present cases in the United States Supreme Court in the 1930s, when he worked for the Justice Department.

But he does not gush about once having argued at the highest court in the land.

"Routine stuff," he said. "Part of the job."

The secret to his longevity and ability to keep working? He's not really sure. He said he thinks exercise has helped, noting that many years ago, he sent away for a $30 exercise book, and he's exercised a half-hour a day ever since.

"I have a good diet, I don't drink, I don't smoke," he added. "And I've done a lot of church work and community work."

His resume shows that he's worked on more boards than a house framer, including those for the University of Utah and Salt Lake City libraries, the Mental Health Association, the Community Services Council, the Salt Lake Housing Authority and, appropriately, the Salt Lake Council on Aging. He's been an LDS bishop, president of his Kiwanis Club and a Scoutmaster three times.

And he's rarely been alone. His first marriage, to Mirra Jacobs, produced four children and lasted 57 years until 1992. He was married again three years later to Doris "Alex" Clawson.

Family lore tells about 78-year-old Alex Clawson asking a friend whether she should marry someone who was 88.

"Well, I guess if you had three good months, what could it hurt?" came the reply.

The marriage lasted nearly 12 years until Alex died last August at the age of 90.

"Dad always said getting remarried helped," said David Bird, who, along with his sister Katharine, will host Richard's 100th birthday bash later today — providing they can pry him out of his office.

Richard would not participate in plans for the party, other than agree to attend if he made it that far.

But by yesterday afternoon, David reported that he could see confidence finally rising in Utah's newest centenarian.

"I think at this point, even he's starting to believe it's going to happen," he said.

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Lee Benson's column runs Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Please send e-mail to benson@desnews.com and faxes to 801-237-2527.