There’s something undeniably fascinating about people who seem to outlive the rules the rest of us are playing by, and one New Jersey man is doing just that, in a big way. At 111 years old, Luis Cano isn’t just living a long life, he’s making history.
The New Jersey resident is believed to be the oldest man in the United States right now, and honestly, his story feels like something out of another era. Born all the way back on December 9, 1914, Cano has witnessed more than a century of change, growth, and transformation.
But if you’re expecting some wildly complicated formula behind his longevity, think again. When asked about how he’s managed to reach such an incredible milestone, Cano kept it refreshingly straightforward. “Don’t drink a lot. Get good sleep and don’t smoke,” he shared.
New Jersey Man Celebrates 111th Birthday
That’s it. No trendy diets. No expensive wellness routines. Just simple, old-school advice that feels almost too obvious, but clearly, it’s worked for him. And when it comes to how to live a good life, not just a long one, his answer is even more direct. “Behave well.”
It’s the kind of advice that sounds almost old-fashioned in today’s world, but maybe that’s exactly the point. Cano’s life story is just as rich as his years. Originally from Colombia, he served in the Colombian Army as a young man before eventually building a career operating a fleet of buses.
In 1948, he married Alicia Angelo Cano, and together they built a large, loving family that would eventually grow to include 10 children, 11 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and even two great-great-grandchildren.
In the 1990s, the family made a major move to the United States, settling in Long Island, New York. According to Cano, creating a life in America stands as his proudest accomplishment, a sentiment that speaks volumes about the journey he’s taken.
“That’s incredible. I think he’s got 20 more years,” one person commented online. “He’s in fantastic shape,” said another. “An American treasure,” a third person chimed in. “So happy for him,” a fourth comment read.
What A Life
After losing his wife in 2004, Cano now lives with two of his children, surrounded by the family he helped build over generations. These days, his life has slowed down, but there’s still beauty in the quiet moments. He spends much of his time looking out the window, reflecting on life. And in a small but meaningful detail, he still finds joy in watching airplanes pass by, something that clearly connects to his longtime interest in aviation.
Despite his low-key lifestyle, Cano has become something of a local icon. Each year, when a birthday sign goes up in his yard, passing cars honk in celebration. It’s a simple gesture, but it says a lot about the impact he’s had on his community.
Even Linden’s mayor, Derek Armstead, has made multiple visits to spend time with Cano, recently presenting him with a proclamation honoring his remarkable life and legacy. In a world obsessed with hacks and shortcuts, Cano’s story is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful advice is also the simplest. Sleep well. Take care of yourself. Live right.
This New Jersey man’s story is something to be applauded. Not only has he lived a long life, he’s also lived a good life, and that’s all most of us can hope for.
Emma Taylor 
Nina Franklin 
Kendra Quinn 
