Colombia bids farewell with respect and admiration to Julio Enrique Saldarriaga Hernándezrecognized by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) as the oldest man in the country
News Colombia.
With 112 years oldSaldarriaga died on October 10 in the municipality of Carmen de Viboralin eastern Antioquia, leaving a legacy of wisdom, work and strength that marked six generations of his family.
The Mayor’s Office of El Carmen de Viboral confirmed the news and expressed his regret for the departure of this exemplary citizen.
“Today we come together with deep respect and sadness to say goodbye to an extraordinary human being, who, at 112 years of life, was recognized as the oldest person in Colombia. His long existence was a testimony of wisdom, strength and an invaluable history that enriched his family and his entire community,” said the mayor. Hugo Jimenez Cuervo on their social networks.
A legacy of life, effort and longevity
Julio Enrique Saldarriaga was born on July 30, 1913 in Cocorná, Antioquiaand from a young age he dedicated his life to working in the fields and to the artisanal production of liquor. His story inspired the local community and caught the attention of international researchers interested in understanding the secrets behind his extraordinary longevity.
According to his relatives, Don Julio used to attribute his good health to a quiet life, constant work and his peculiar baths with rum, which, he said, protected him from respiratory diseases despite his daily exposure to the coal he used in his rural work.
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Recognized by science and loved by his community
At the beginning of 2025, the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) officially certified him as one of the living supercentenarians of Colombia, a recognition granted to people who are over 110 years old. His story became a symbol of resilience and natural longevityawakening the interest of national and international media.
In El Carmen de Viboral, where he had lived for decades, he was admired for his simplicity and his prodigious memory. “Over the years he left traces of affection, teachings and an example of resilience. His memory will remain alive in those who had the privilege of knowing him,” added Mayor Jiménez Cuervo.
Farewell and tribute
The Municipal Mayor’s Office announced that the funeral honors by Don Julio Enrique Saldarriaga will be held in the municipality, amidst messages of gratitude and respect from family members, neighbors and local authorities.
Colombia thus bids farewell to a man whose life spanned more than a century, a witness to historical, cultural and social transformations, and whose example of strength and optimism will continue to inspire future generations.
