For many years Ralph Berkey, known locally as "The Can Man," traveled along Routes 30 and 41 in Gap and Christiana to pick up discarded aluminum cans as a way to generate extra income. He could be seen every Tuesday, pulling a wagon along the roadways.

The community now has an opportunity to meet Berkey in person and wish him a happy 77th birthday during a party to be held on Sunday, Oct. 12, at the Christiana Lions Club, 325 N. Bridge St., Christiana. People may drop in anytime between 1 and 4 p.m. Individually wrapped birthday cupcakes will be provided.

Berkey's friend Janice Crills, who provides him with assistance, is organizing the party. "He hasn't been able to be on the road for several years, but people still know him," Crills explained. "Most people call him The Can Man or Ralphie."

Berkey, an honorary member of the Christiana Lions Club, has been assisted through the years by the club, which at one time gifted him with a new wagon to collect the cans during his weekly route through Chester and Lancaster counties. In 2008, Lions Club members were able to help provide Berkey with a trailer to live in, which was furnished through donations and help from volunteers and local churches.

Since Berkey is no longer physically able to collect cans, Crills accompanies him on outdoor outings throughout the week. "We walk at the Gap (Salisbury Township) Community Park a couple of times a week," she said, noting that they walk at indoor locations in the event of inclement or extreme weather.

Berkey also keeps busy creating art using colored pencils. "We turn them into things like greeting cards and paper lanterns and other items," said Crills, noting that visitors to the birthday party will be able to purchase the items for a donation. "It's more to have people come out and celebrate him. He enjoys seeing people."

Although gifts are not requested, those who attend the party may bring greeting cards for Berkey to enjoy and later display in his home.