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Metro Detroit machinist turning 92 years old with no plans to retire

Posted at 8:36 PM, Aug 30, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-30 20:36:32-04

A Royal Oak machinist is turning 92 on Thursday and has no plans to retire.

Yves Roger has been working as a machinist for Olsen Manufacturing for 60 years. 

"Working is a pleasure because you accomplish something," he said.

He moved to Michigan from France in 1955.

"That's one thing I enjoyed when I came to this country, the work ethic of the American people," he said. "I felt that I belonged here because I enjoyed that. Two years after I came to the states, I started working for Olsen."

Roger is gearing up to celebrate his 92nd birthday.

"I don't know what it is to feel to be 92. I know that I am and I know that I can do more than most people," he said.

He is very active, doing more than 100 push ups almost daily.

"Keeping busy is better than being idle."

In France during World War II, Roger fought alongside U.S. soldiers and always felt a connection with America.

He came to this country looking to put his skills to the test.

"I wanted to produce. I wanted to make parts," he said.

Roger has become the "go-to" expert at Olsen, giving advice even if it's unsolicited.

"If they don't ask me, I tell them," he said.

And he has these words of wisdom for the rest of us.

"If you start enjoying your work, life is easier."

At 92, he's mastered that.