Dustin B Levy

dlevy@eveningsun.com

Nadine Baum, a Hanover woman whose surprise 100th birthday celebration went viral in October, died last month.

Baum memorably celebrated becoming a centenarian with a surprise party at the Baltimore Street McDonald's.

Baum died on March 2, according to her obituary. A funeral was held on March 10.

In October 2016, Baum entered the restaurant with her mouth agape and walker in hand as employees sang "Happy Birthday" to her. She was escorted by her son, Mike Baum.

It was an annual tradition for Baum and her son to visit that Hanover McDonald's location on her birthday. The crew surprised Baum with balloons, cupcakes, a decorated and reserved table and a certificate for a lifetime of free McDonald's.

"I don't know what I did to deserve all this," Baum said at the time. "I count my blessings every day."

Baum was never able to use her certificate because her health took a turn for the worse following her birthday celebration, according to Gen Steinbrenner, an employee at the Hanover McDonald's.

Baum was a frequent customer, typically accompanying her son Mike, Steinbrenner said. She called Baum "a sweet lady."

"She was like a friend," Steinbrenner said. "She wasn't like a customer."

Photos from Baum's surprise party are framed by the entrance of the Baltimore Street restaurant.

"We just wanted her to know that we appreciated her," Steinbrenner said.

Baum's story received national attention from Fox News and Good Morning America, among other news organizations.

Baum, a 1934 graduate of Eichelberger High School, was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ, according to her obituary. She loved to read.

She is survived by her two sons, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, according to her obituary.

More: Free McDonald's for life for 100-year-old Hanover woman