[email protected]

Carpet Replacement

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Carpet replacement in the LSCO Lobby beginning on November 6th.

Starting November 6, the city will begin installing new carpet in the lobby of the LSCO. This project will occur in three phases, each impacting different areas. Please be aware of the following schedule and changes to access:

Section 1: Starting November 6

  • Area: West entrance to the east door of Room A/B, including the coat rack/chair storage area, clinic room, and Step’s office.
  • Access: The main (double white) doors will be closed. Please use the East (MOW delivery) door for entrance to the upstairs offices, dining room, and other areas.

Section 2: Starting approx. November 12

  • Area: East door of Room A/B to the west side of the elevator, including administration, the library, boutique, and drop-in office.
  • Access: Both the East and main doors will be open as needed for Room A/B and upstairs areas.

Section 3: Starting once section 2 is completed

  • Area: Lobby area near the Support Services desk up to the card area.
    Access may be restricted during this time. We will provide updates as the project progresses.

Arlene Visser

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Meet Arlene. Arlene has been volunteering with LSCO as an admin and special events volunteer for the past 9 months. The staff here at LSCO love seeing her smiling face; she is wonderful asset to our volunteer team!
Arlene is an incredibly dedicated worker. Before her retirement, she held a diverse range of positions, including roles at the Lethbridge Herald, owning her own specialty grocery store, managing a condominium, and serving as a caregiver for 25 years. Originally from the Philippines, Arlene also spent 15 years working as a secretary before making Canada her home. Her varied career reflects her empathy and compassion, strong work ethic and commitment to excellence in every role she undertook.
When she isn’t volunteering, Arlene enjoys taking her dog for walks and is an active member of a local walking group. If she were to win 10 million dollars, her first wish would be to travel, starting with a trip to the Philippines to reconnect with her family. “I want to explore more of the Philippines and visit other places here in Canada,” she shared. Arlene also expressed that she misses the delicious food from her home country.
Arlene truly enjoys her volunteering experience at LSCO. Her enthusiasm for typing is evident, and we greatly appreciate her contributions in our administrative role. When asked about her motivation to volunteer, Arlene replied with heartfelt simplicity, “I just want to help; whatever I can do! I don’t want to sit around doing nothing.” This selfless attitude not only reflects her generous spirit but also inspires those around her. Arlene stated, “When you volunteer, if you put your heart in it you will enjoy yourself. You don’t have to be paid to be happy.” We couldn’t agree more! Thank you Arlene for generously giving LSCO your time and commitment.
Is there a volunteer that you think deserves a special shout out? Nominate a volunteer for a Monthly Spotlight by chatting or sending an email to Bonnie at [email protected]

Barry & Terry Bannerman

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Introducing Barry and Terry! This delightful couple has been volunteering with LSCO Meals on Wheels (MOW) for two years. They are incredibly dependable and always eager to help out in a pinch. Terry shared, “When an extra shift comes up and we’re asked, ‘Can you help?’ we always say, ‘SURE!’” They began their volunteering journey with MOW because they wanted to find a meaningful daily activity, and their church suggested the opportunity. The rest, as they say, is history. Barry added, “Instead of sitting around in our condo, we prefer to get out into the fresh air and help people. It’s so gratifying.”
Barry and Terry met at their church and are celebrating their 12th wedding anniversary this month. Until recently, they celebrated their anniversary monthly—Happy 144th month anniversary, Barry and Terry! When asked, “Is there a person in your life who inspires you to be a volunteer?” Barry pointed to Terry—SO CUTE! They truly are the sweetest.
Outside of their volunteer work at LSCO, Barry keeps busy with golf and shooting pool, while Terry enjoys painting with acrylics and watercolors. They love spending time at LSCO and appreciate the kindness of everyone here. They also enjoy shopping at the LSCO Boutique and have bought several handmade items.
When asked what they would do if they won 10 million dollars, Terry responded, “I’d put a lot of it into this community at LSCO because there are so many seniors who need this friendship. I’d invest it here.” LSCO hopes Barry and Terry win a fortune (Haha!). They thoroughly enjoy all the LSCO events and always get tickets for Mother’s Day. Terry also gave a shout out to our Chef, Lachlan, saying, “And the Chef—oh my—the meals are wonderful!” Barry and Terry are great supporters of LSCO and amazing advocates for the MOW program.
Barry and Terry both agree that the best part about volunteering with LSCO MOW is “meeting the people.” Barry noted, “The people are well worth it. You meet the most interesting individuals.” Terry shared that they developed a meaningful connection with one person through MOW, who later moved to St. Therese. Terry continued visiting her there, saying, “She appreciated the extended friendship.”
In response to why others should consider volunteering, Barry and Terry highlight the importance of supporting seniors in our community. They believe it’s essential to care for the pioneers and older generations who came before us and find it incredibly rewarding to form friendships with MOW participants. Barry and Terry truly love being part of the Lethbridge community, and we are so grateful they are! Thank you Barry and Terry for making a difference!

Martha Nance

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Martha Nance (née Carlson) was born and raised on the Milk River Ridge in the hamlet of Jefferson, Alberta. Jefferson no longer exists, but Martha recalls that it was a thriving little community. There were stores, churches, three elevators, teacherages, a garage, residential neighborhoods, and its own Owendale post office. Martha rode her bike while her friends rode their horses; she is not an “animal person.” Martha believes to this day that Jefferson’s schoolteachers sincerely cared about the children and helped them do well in life. Schools closed in Jefferson in 1960-61, and all the children were then bussed to Cardston for their formal education. Jefferson eventually disappeared due to transportation making a close place non-essential.
Martha defines herself as being part of the Baby Boomer generation. She was from a family of five children, and she was the youngest child. She says that as the youngest, she always knew she was “privileged” and never had to go without.
Martha’s father came from Sweden to Canada as a teenager, avoiding conscription into the Swedish army. He was sponsored by the Strom farm family of Burdett to emigrate but went back to Sweden before returning to Canada permanently with his brother and nephew.
Martha’s mother’s family came to Canada from Norway with one child, and they had five more children after settling in Canada. Martha’s mother was born in Saskatchewan. Martha’s Norwegian grandmother always remembered seeing the luxurious Titanic ship in Liverpool while they were setting off for Canada on a much lesser ship. Once in Canada, they took an “immigrant train” to Saskatchewan. Martha’s Norwegian grandfather never returned to Norway, but her grandmother was able to go back 50 years after arriving in Canada.
Martha’s parents met in Jefferson. Her parents did well in farming, and Martha says this gave her family a good life. She describes her parents as successfully working as a team to operate, maintain, and grow their farm. Martha learned many life lessons from her parents, with financial literacy being a very significant one. She understands the meaning of hard work and perseverance in keeping a family successfully afloat.
Martha first went to Sweden at age 12 with her family but says she is not much of a traveler. She recalls that what she experienced on her Swedish trip demonstrated the difference between rural Canada and urban European lifestyles. She does travel to see her daughters, who both reside in the mainland United States.
Martha graduated from Cardston High School, then moved in with her grandmother and attended Lethbridge Junior College, taking Business Administration. Martha met Dave Nance in Lethbridge. He was working for his father in farm machinery, then opened House of Books as the University of Lethbridge was being built. Martha and Dave married and had two girls. When the girls were 5 and 7 years old, the family moved to Pender Island (in the Vancouver Island channel); they operated the general store and post office. As parents, they became concerned about the negative teenage social circles, so Martha took the girls to live in Victoria to change their social networks to something more positive. Dave sold the general store and became “retired” at 47 years old. This required a big adjustment for them, and Dave had to adapt to new roles, including learning to cook and clean.
Martha recalls that she worked outside the home for about four years before their children were born. She describes herself as a “jack of all trades and master of none.” Martha says her most important role was as a wife and mother. She has always seen herself as more of a support person to others than a leader and is most comfortable in that role.
When both of their daughters were at the University of Victoria, Martha and her husband moved to Osoyoos, BC, for six to seven years. Then, in 1994, they moved to Lethbridge to be closer to her mother. Martha and her husband were married for over 51 years. She was widowed six years ago.
Martha enjoys gardening, and her lovely established yard is a testament to that. She likes to cook and bake, though she can resist many foods that tempt her—except for her 5 p.m. glass of red wine.
Martha considers herself a Tibetan Buddhist in her personal belief system and philosophy. She was introduced to this faith system via her daughter. Martha stated, “Being mindful would simplify our lives; mindfulness is the tool to have harmony and balance; we need compassion.” She says she is trying to follow a ‘Patient Path,’ accepting things as they are.
Martha, an LSCO member for about 20 years, still feels the organization’s Mission Statement rings true to her. She keeps active and volunteers in the kitchen and wherever she is needed. She also regularly volunteers for the Lethbridge Horticultural Society, especially at the flower gardens by the Henderson tennis courts.
Martha likes the outdoors, enjoying activities such as walking and kayaking in the summer. She enjoys most kinds of music, such as country, classical, and jazz. She also enjoys knitting and Wordle. She says she is reverting to her “youth of play” by enjoying activities like ladderball and card games. Martha believes it is important to smile and laugh and not get lost in negativity. “Don’t take yourself too seriously, or you will lose your ability to laugh at yourself.”
Martha lives by the rule: “If you don’t have anything nice to say about somebody, don’t say anything.” She is not a proponent of “sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you,” as she says that “you can never take words back!”

Martha presents as a warm, friendly, and generous person, and I was pleased to learn this little bit more about her. She is a gift to the LSCO community!
Previous Member Spotlights can be found on our website at www.lethseniors.com/blog
If you are interested in being interviewed for a Member Spotlight please contact Hannah at [email protected] or 403-320-2222 ext. 302

Dorothy & William Halma

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Dorothy (nee: Brown) and William “Bill” Halma have been members of LSCO since about 2015. Dorothy can be found with the Knitters Group and William plays Crib and participates in Fit Ball.
Dorothy was born in Penticton, B.C. in 1945. She is the youngest of a family of 3 daughters. Her father was in the Canadian infantry in Normandy where he lost the use of a leg and became an amputee. Dorothy was raised in Banff, where she graduated in 1963 as part of Banff High School’s first graduating class. She then left at the age of 18 to attend secretarial school in Calgary while her parents remained in Banff. Dorothy has joyful childhood memories of Banff where ‘everybody knew everybody’. Over time, it would become a ‘tourist town’ with the town really “coming alive” from May to September.
William was born in the Netherlands in 1942, about a mile from the North Sea. He completed 6 years of formal education in the Netherlands before his family of 9 children came to Canada in 1954 for economic and security reasons. With Russia knocking on the doorstep of western Europe, William’s father believed that his children would have better prospects in Canada away from a communist system.
William’s mother went on to have three more children in Canada. William was placed in Grade 5 in Sunnyside School when the family arrived and he believes this school was a great introduction to Canada as many of his classmates were new Canadians. He learned a lot of English from comic books and Dick and Jane books. After moving to the Taber Area, William completed Grade 8 at Barnwell School when he was 16 before joining the Canadian Army in 1958 through the Soldier Apprentice Program. He was stationed for 2 years each at Shilo (Manitoba), Picton (Ontario), and with the Canadian Brigade in Hemer, Germany. In 1964, the ‘Honest John’ Nuclear Missile program was cancelled and William was offered a release or transfer to another unit. So, he returned to Lethbridge, then to Calgary to attend S.A.I.T in Land Surveying Technology (1964-65).
Growing up in Banff, Dorothy enjoyed sledding, outdoor skating, and walking across the ‘rink’ that was created over the Bow River in winter. In the summer, she climbed around Tunnel Mountain and rode bikes. She wanted to be a stewardess but did not meet the height requirements of the time and later discovered she doesn’t enjoy flying.
Willliam and Dorothy met in Calgary while he was a student at S.A.I.T and she was a clerk at the Calgary Police Service. They married in 1965 and moved to Edmonton where two of their sons would be born and Dorthy would make the transition to being a full-time homemaker. William worked in land surveying and decided to make it a career. They lived in an ideal setting for four years until William’s career took them to Grande Prairie so he could article as a land surveyor. It took 10 years of study and testing to finally achieve his Licensed Alberta Land Surveyor designation in 1979. Their third son was born in Grande Prairie.
William and Dorothy moved to Lethbridge in 1976. They started up Halma Surveys in 1979 and operated their small business of generally three employees. Dorothy was a homemaker and kept the office operating smoothly. William was proud of their timely service and their reasonable pricing and that in 30 years of operating there was never a WCB complaint against them. They sold the business in 2013 and William gave up his ALS commission in 2015.
Dorothy is best known for saying ”Are your feet clean?” This is a source of amusement, but it is also significant to her. William paraphrases a Bible quote “whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability, and your heart will feel glad.” William is active member of the Bethel Free Reformed Church in Monarch.
William like to keep a garden of vegetables and enjoys fresh veggies immensely, though he does describe himself as a ‘meat and potatoes man’. Dorothy says her comfort foods different types of salads, in-season veggies and chocolate.
Dorothy likes the music of Jim Reeves, Patsy Cline, Charlie Pride, Danny O’Donnell. William prefers light opera and can tolerate Elvis. William is a lifetime member of the Lethbridge Men’s Christian Choir. Dorothy enjoys jigsaw, crossword puzzles and reading.
William enjoys his little personally homemade “cabin” near Police Lake. This is his regular getaway and they both appreciate it, as they worked so closely together for so many years, they are happy to have this bit of independent time. Like Dorthy says “houpel op” which translates to “get lost for a while”. They feel they have drifted into their retirement and seem to enjoy its simplicity.
William and Dorothy are pleased that all three sons and their families live and work in Lethbridge. They have four grandchildren, all in Lethbridge between the ages of 16-19.
Dorothy and William were a pleasure to meet and get to know. Although a couple with differing backgrounds and interests, they seem to share a sense of humour, enjoy each other and their retirement, and their 59 year marriage.
Many Congratulations!

Darlene Dahl

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Darlene Dahl was born the middle child of her family. She was born in Winnipeg, but her two siblings were born in Bassano and Edmonton. She describes her childhood as turbulent and challenging because the family moved around a lot. Darlene says she learned basic homemaking skills at a young age as she was “Mom’s little helper.” She developed a love of music because they usually sang while they worked together. She left home at age 14 and married at age 16. She got a high school Honours Business Diploma by age 17 and began working as a clerk-typist, residing around Westlock and Athabasca.
Darlene gave birth to her first son at age 19, then her second son at age 21 in Westlock. Her first son was born with a congenital heart defect and underwent open heart surgery at two days old; he also suffered a cardiac arrest at one month old resulting in mild cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Darlene became his health care aide and advocate with guidance from various health care professionals. She left her marriage with her sons and moved to Nakusp, BC to be near family, and then Calgary for better access to health care. She upgraded her technology skills and worked as an Accounts Payable Invoice Analyst, while parenting her two sons. Stress and a serious health scare had her moving to Grande Prairie and family. Only one year later, her special needs son passed away at age nine and her world turned upside down.
In an attempt to find a new purpose, Darlene spent one and a half years at Grande Prairie College and commuted back and forth to Fairview College for two years, to obtain an Animal Health Technologist Diploma. She then married her second husband and moved to his farm near Pickardville, AB. A broad variety of employment followed: auction mart cattle runner; assistant dairy herdsman; oil rig cook; housekeeping aide, cook, and inventory-order clerk in seniors’ facilities; and a personal care aide to a Multiple Sclerosis patient. She took classes and became a Registered Massage Therapist and a Level 2 Reiki practitioner in 2005.
After 13 years of this demanding lifestyle, she moved on from her second marriage, and relocated to Calgary where she focused on her massage therapy career.
Darlene came to Lethbridge in 2010 and was feeling grateful, optimistic, and excited. Her second son lived in Lethbridge, she was building a successful massage clientele, and she met a man she describes as ”the love of her life.” In December 2011, she and her partner were in a motor vehicle accident in which she broke her neck and he broke his collarbone. They supported each other as he mended and she learned to walk again and regain the use of her hands. Darlene says she had a miraculous recovery and was back home in less than three months. Unfortunately, Darlene’s partner collapsed and passed away suddenly in 2013. Once again, her world was turned upside down.
Darlene joined LSCO in 2016. She is a regular weekly volunteer at Winners Bingo and she is involved in the LSCO Foot Clinics. Darlene is an active member in the LSCO Karaoke Group.
Darlene has a variety of interests and hobbies: e.g. arts & crafts, stitchery, card games, puzzles, board games, painting and sketching, and tv shows. She is a good cook and prefers her own cooking, but she does enjoy chocolate.
Darlene is proud to be a mother. She says her children shaped her as much a she shaped them. She is also proud of being in a negotiating team that managed to secure a CUPE pension plan for a group of workers that looked after seniors in Westlock, Alberta.
Darlene’s favourite quotes/advice are: “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again” and “To have tried and failed is better than to never have tried at all.” Darlene has often been told to write a book about her life’s journey, but she says she needs a ‘ghostwriter’ to help her do so.
Darlene can be found at the LSCO dining room from time to time. She loves to meet new people and is quite willing to share a table and have a chat.

John Unrau

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This posthumous Spotlight was not able to be completed before John’s illness took over. John’s sister, Ruth, provided some additional information to complete this article. Please read about this extraordinary Member/Volunteer, who you likely saw at LSCO, but did not know.
John Unrau hailed from Coaldale, raised by German-speaking Russian Mennonite parents who married in 1944. His parents were not allowed to practice their faith in Russia, causing them to move to Canada in the 1920s but kept their roots by speaking Russian in their home until John and Ruth’s public schooling transitioned their household language to English.
Growing up secluded on a farm near Coaldale, only venturing off for school and church, John and his sister Ruth shared a tight bond, spending their days cycling, playing, and studying together. Despite Ruth’s attempts to convince him otherwise, John modestly dismissed his intellect, though Ruth emphasizes John’s common sense and numerous competencies that she does not have.
Tragedy struck early with their mother’s passing when John was 18, followed by their father’s remarriage, which both siblings embraced wholeheartedly. John graduated from Kate Andrews High School in the mid-1960s and delved into music briefly, mastering a few piano pieces before moving on.
His academic journey led him through science courses at Lethbridge Junior College and culminated in a Diploma in Chemical Technology (Biochemistry) from SAIT in 1968. His professional career bloomed at the Lethbridge Research Station, where he dedicated 29 years to soil technology before retiring in 1997.
Post-retirement, John found joy and camaraderie at Green Haven Nurseries and the Mennonite Central Committee Thrift Shop, developing lasting friendships. Despite facing multiple brain surgeries starting in 2006, John maintained a matter-of-fact attitude about it, never allowing adversity to overshadow his positive attitude.
While not a frequent traveler, John cherished his visits to Hawaii and Washington, D.C., particularly relishing his time at the Smithsonian. Described as a homebody, John poured his energies into various hobbies like gardening, stained glass, petit point, woodworking, and writing, showcasing a multifaceted talent. His skills were of a such a high quality, there was an exhibition of many of his petit point pictures at LSCO in 2011 (See Below)

His love for classical music permeated his home and workshop, where he indulged in refurbishing wood to install wainscotting in his home (as an example) and creating stained glass pieces used to decorate his house and others.
John was also known for his loveable features like wearing shorts all year round, reading dictionaries for obscure words, baking his renowned Christmas cakes, biking to work for years and recycling before it became the thing to do. He loved “old things” and living life “plain and simple.”
John’s playful nature also shone through his occasional pranks. He once auctioned off his sister’s ‘long lost coffee mug’ at a Christmas party and it cost her $62 to get it back. John liked cheese, peanut butter, and dill pickles, but especially loved hot sauces. A little hot sauce in anything could do no wrong, in John’s estimation.
Despite being rather shy, John forged deep friendships, especially with women from diverse backgrounds, embodying kindness, humility, and empathy. These traits made him an excellent volunteer at the Lethbridge Soup Kitchen, as he was non judgemental and able to identify with marginalized people.
His commitment to community service earned him accolades like Lethbridge Senior of Distinction Award in 2014; a certificate from Canadian Blood Services for donating 200 times; and an Honorary Life Membership at LSCO for his thousands of hours of service. His loyalty as a volunteer to this organization was legendary as he could be found dishwashing regularly and would be called upon ‘last minute’ to fill-in for many years. He will be remembered as a kind, gentle, and caring man.
John passed away at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Unit on January 31, 2024. To borrow from his special friend Anne, “Walk softly in the world, help others, be true to yourself & others, and keep a bottle of hot sauce with you whenever you eat out!” He is lovingly missed by his LSCO colleagues and friends.

1st Annual Twilight Soiree

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Purchase your tickets here – available until Monday November 25

You are cordially invited to join us on November 30th for LSCO’s inaugural Twilight Soirée with entertainment partner Mosiac Music YQL and title sponsor Lethbridge Hearing Centre, a magical winter evening in support of LSCO and its vital senior programs. Guests will enjoy a luxurious 5 course meal, cash bar, live entertainment by talented local musical acts Hippodrome and James Oldenberg, a lively silent auction, and a night of dancing. With your support, all proceeds will benefit Meals on Wheels and LSCO’s senior services, helping ensure that older adults in our community can continue to lead healthy, independent lives.

Semi formal dress code.

Many volunteers are also needed before, during, and after the event. If you would like to volunteer please contact Carla at [email protected] or call 403-320-2222 ext. 208

Did you know? LSCO Meals on Wheels subsidizes meal costs for every single client. We do not receive any government funding towards the cost of food – relying entirely on fundraising, grants, and donations to cover the $95,000 shortfall in food and packaging costs alone. This $95,000 does not include an additional $101,000 for the resources needed to keep the program running such as a portion of our kitchen staff salary, building lease and utilites, kitchen maintenance, insurance etc. The LSCO has been covering those additional costs through our other programming for years, but this is not sustainable.

Our clients cannot afford to pay higher meal prices. We have only had three small increases to MOW prices in the past 7 years, despite rising food costs and a huge price increase for MOW packaging. With almost all of our clients on small, fixed incomes, it should be no surprise that every small price increase results in customers ordering fewer meals per month (making meals stretch over two or more mealtimes) or dropping out of the service altogether. BUT YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! By supporting events like this one, you help us continue to make sure no senior goes to bed with an empty stomach.

Details

Tickets

$100 each and are eligible for a $30 tax receipt which will be automatically issued when purchased. Refunds cannot be processed.
Tickets can also be purchased in person at the LSCO  – 500 11th St. S, Lethbridge
Tickets purchased together will be seated together. If you would like to be seated with additional people, please send Hannah [email protected] an email with their names as soon as possible so we can accomodate your request.
You do not need to print and bring your tickets – a guest list will be automatically generated for check in when you arrive.

Order of Events

5:30 Doors open; silent auction & cash bar opens

6:30 5 Course dinner begins; live music from James Oldenberg

8:00 Dance Floor Opens; live music from Hippodrome

9:30 Silent Auction Closes

10:30 Event finished

Menu

Starter
Toasted Croissant Bruschetta

Soup
Roasted Tomato & Pepper Bisque

Salad
Wedge Salad with Sherry Vinaigrette

Main Course
Sponsored by Fox Denture Clinic

Choice of: Prime Rib, Chicken Supreme with White Wine Mushroom Sauce, Stuffed Portabello Mushroom (Vegetarian/Vegan)
Served with Potato Dauphinoise, Asparagus and Carrot Bouquet

Dessert
Pavlova with Mint Anglaise and Berry Coulis

Cash Bar

Beer, Red and White Wine, Spirits, Non -Alcoholic Beer/Cider/Spirits

Sponsors and Silent Auction Donors

We are also looking for Sponsors and Silent Auction Item donations. View the Sponsorship Package and sign up with this online form to confirm your sponsorship or item donation.

We are incredibly grateful for the sponsors of this event

Title Sponsor

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Silent Auction Item Donors

  • Lethbridge Hurricanes
  • Chef Stella’s Diner
  • Superstore
  • Browns Social House South
  • Site One Landscape Supply
  • LSCO Quilters
  • Distilled Liquor Co
  • King of Trade
  • Anonymous Donors of various items

Halloween Bash 2024

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Date: October 31
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 pm
You’re never too old to dress up for Halloween! This year’s Halloween Bash is free to attend and will feature appetizers, beer/wine, a 50/50 draw, and trick-or-treating.
Prizes will be awarded for the best Halloween costumes, and no RSVP is necessary!
Open to LSCO Members and Guests
 
Get involved: Come celebrate with us, spread the word, volunteer in the kitchen, help with decorating or take down decorations, assist with the 50/50, or donate candy for trick-or-treating.
Contact the volunteer team at [email protected] or in person to sign up.

Senior Changemakers

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October 1 is National Seniors Day and International Day of Older Persons

In honor of National Seniors Day, we are proud to feature our “Senior Changemakers”—individuals whose actions have made a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. These stories, handpicked by our staff, highlight the wisdom, strength, and perseverance of seniors who have led by example. Some of the articles were written by staff members about people close to them, while others were sourced from inspiring accounts found online. Join us in celebrating these remarkable individuals and the legacies they’ve built.

Doris Self 

Born September 18, 1925, Doris Self is most known for holding the record of “oldest video game champion” by scoring an unbelievable 1,112,300 points in the arcade game Q*bert at the age of 58 (1984).

At the time, Doris was the top ranked Q*Bert player in the world, achieving scores higher than gamers that were decades younger. Many believed she would never become champion, as younger men who were considered faster and more reactionary, dominated competitive gaming at the time. Not only did Doris face a stigma because of her age and gender, she even played the game differently than the other competitive gamers, never memorizing game patterns. She once stated that she just “goes with the flow”. On her record-breaking day, her competitors thought that she was just an older woman that had a love for the game, little did they know that Doris was used to being a pioneer. Doris was officially recognized as the world’s oldest video game competitor in 2007. A true pioneer in competitive gaming, Doris Self will forever be an inspiration to not only older gamers, but to gamer women around the globe. – Hannah

Source: https://www.gamerwomen.com/doris-self/

Priscilla Sitienei “Gogo”

In a classroom in rural Kenya’s Rift Valley, a student takes notes alongside her fellow classmates. She wears the same school uniform – a grey skirt and a green sweater. However, there is one difference. Priscilla Sitienei is more than 80 years older than them. Sitienei turned 99-years-old on February 11, [2022]. She said she went back to class to set a good example for her great grandchildren. She also wants a new career. “I would like to become a doctor because I used to be a midwife,” she told Reuters. She added that her children were supportive of her decision.

Back in 2003, the government of the East African country began helping to pay for the cost of primary schooling. This has allowed some older members of society, who had missed out on education in their younger days, to go back to school. This has given Sitienei more than an education. She has also become a film star.

Sitienei traveled to Paris last year for the launch of a film about her journey. It is titled Gogo, which means grandmother in her native Kalenjin language. She will also be heading to New York City soon for a showing of the film there.

Sitienei is in her sixth year of primary school. She says her aims were far more practical than becoming a movie star.

She said she had the idea when her great granddaughter dropped out of school after getting pregnant. Sitienei said she jokingly asked her great granddaughter if she had money remaining on her school fee, and she said yes. So, Sitienei told her that she would use it to attend school. She said she had hoped that her great granddaughter would continue with her studies. But when she refused, Sitienei decided to go to school herself.

She said she also enjoys other school activities, including physical education classes.

“It keeps me fit,” she said. “I get to jump around, even though not as much as they … do, but I at least move my body. That is my joy.”

Sitienei shares her wide experience and knowledge with the children. Her teachers also use her experience to keep the peace during lessons. Her class teacher, Leonida Talaam, said she uses Sitienei to help control the class. And it works! – Amy L

Source: https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/kenyan-woman-goes-back-to-primary-school-at-98/6436778.html

Gwyn Haslock – Stephanie

My family always used to go to the sea when I was growing up. We all started surfing in the 1950s on the north coast of Cornwall with wooden belly boards, which are like planks of wood. Then the lifeguards started to import Malibu longboards, which were 10ft long, and before long they started making them there in Newquay. I bought a secondhand one and started properly surfing in 1965.

I wasn’t what you’d call a typical surfer like in the Beach Boys songs. A lot of the good surfers worked in the surfing trade, in surf shops and so on, but I worked for the council as a shorthand typist. It was very 9 to 5, but I surfed at weekends.

I just liked the sea. And when I saw people standing up as if they were walking across the water, I thought, I’d like to have a go at that. It took me about a month before I could stand up and a year before I got any style. I entered my first competition in 1965 as the only woman, and was the first proper British ladies’ champion in 1969. But like any sport, you’re always learning.

I always say to people, the most important thing with surfing is paddling. You’ve got to paddle out, so you have to duck dive under the waves or push yourself over them. Then you’re “out the back”, as we call it. You’ll see a lovely wave coming, paddle for it and up you get. You need to be fit to build up the momentum and then it’s like floating in air, but across the wave. Sometimes it’s just seconds, sometimes the wave peels and it can go on and on. Sometimes at Fistral, you get nice long rides right along the beach. But the conditions are never the same and it always tests you.

I’ve never seen any sharks in Cornwall. I have surfed near dolphins and you do see seals sometimes. I sprained my wrist once, but I’ve never had any bad accident. I know my limits and now I wear my helmet. I want to enjoy it.

I never married. I lived with my mother until she died seven years ago, and I’ve been retired for eight years now. When I was working, I couldn’t go surfing in the week so much, but now I can go whenever I like, which is good as it gets busy at weekends. Back in the 60s there was a lot more water space – it wasn’t like now when everyone’s in there. I like playing tennis, too. I do a bit of fencing. Gardening. There’s lots of things to do.

I’ve surfed in Wales, Ireland, France and once in Portugal. Australia and New Zealand… they don’t appeal to me at all. I did go to California on holiday once and we drove through Malibu and I wasn’t that impressed with it to be honest. We have plenty of surf down here, why do I need to go anywhere else?

Gwyn Haslock was Britain’s first competitive female surfing champion. – Stephanie

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/global/2019/apr/07/age-is-no-barrier-meet-the-oldest-top-athletes

Robin Williams

On July 21, 1951 in Chicago, Illinois, a star was born. Robin Williams, best known for his roles in television and films such as Happy Days (1974), Dead Poets Society (1989), Mrs. Doubtfire (1993), brought a flair to comedic talent that will never be forgotten. Robin had the ability to adapt to the variety of roles he played in both television and film. Many have recalled Robin’s authenticity and how this made him different from any other person. Beyond the role Robin played in the entertainment industry, he also was a philanthropist and truly cared about creating spaces of compassion and connection. Robin was a changemaker, but often he did so in subtle ways through the life lessons he shared through his work. Although Robin is best known for his talent as an actor, through the variety of roles he adapted, he also left us all with some valuable lessons that continue to inspire many. – Katie H

  • Follow your passion & your dreams 
  • Never stop learning & never give up
  • Stay curious 
  • Take calculated risks to expand yourself
  • Be yourself
  • Never take things too seriously 
  • Be kind

Source: https://sayfun.medium.com/what-we-can-learn-from-robin-williams-for-life-and-education-12f5a8477ab0#:~:text=Robin%20Williams%20had%20a%20passion,give%20up%20on%20our%20dreams.

https://people.com/robin-williams-friends-collaborators-legacy-10-years-death-exclusive-8691965

https://mariashriver.com/robin-williams-lasting-legacy

Joe Stockinger

The world records in the 67.5 kilogram weight class weren’t challenging enough for Joe Stockinger, so he ate just enough to move up to the 75 kilogram weight class, and broke those world records instead.

Stockinger, 85, participated in the 100 per cent Raw Powerlifting Western Canadian Championships on June 6 and 7, and came away with three world records.

“You have to religiously, conscientiously, scientifically, work out,” he said.

In the 85 to 89-year-old 75 kilogram class, Stockinger deadlifted 200 kilograms, bench pressed 85 kilograms and squatted 122.5 kilograms, breaking world records in each event. But it’s more than just brute strength, Stockinger said that there is a lot going on behind the scenes both in training and competitions.

Stockinger works out every other day. He takes time out of his workout to visit with other’s using the gym and give pointers and advice. He said that he still struggles with self-motivation but the only way to succeed is to plan ahead and commit. He records the exercises, number of reps and amount of weight he uses during every session in a journal.

At the 100 percent raw contests weight lifters only compete with a belt and single ply clothing, no knee wraps, or powerlifting suits that could assist in any way. Stockinger holds the world records in these events for the 80 to 84 year-old class as well.

Just as important as regularly hitting the gym and planning and recording workouts, is mental preparation, Stockinger said.

“If you’re not mentally prepared, forget it, you’re gone, you’ll fall apart like a card house,” he explained. At a competition, when he is ‘right on’, Stockinger said that everything is perfect from the atmosphere in the gym and the amount of sleep the night before to the warm-up.

“If you don’t warm up properly, you’re not prepared mentally. You have to go there,” he explained.

Stockinger knows his way around a competition. Not only does he hold numerous world records, he is also a qualified referee.

Stockinger started lifting weights in Germany, before moving to Canada in 1954. He took a break while living in Ontario but began training again when he moved west. He didn’t break any world records when he was younger, but came very close.

“I know if I would have had proper coaching and training I would have been much better,” he said.

At the moment Stockinger is preparing to go to the World Championship in Virginia Beach in October. His goal is to lift five more kilograms in each event.

“I can say I have the world records now anyway, do I want more?” Stockinger said.“These are the challenges. That’s the fun, it’s driving you. Can I do it?” –  April

Source: https://www.pinchercreekecho.com/2015/07/05/powerlifting-world-records-at-85-years-old 

Louise ZoBell

This amazing woman is 71 years old – she doesn’t seem to rest as she eats, sleeps, and breathes to help others, especially the people of Dominican Republic. Louise is the founder and Executive Director of the Dominican Starfish Foundation, which is a registered charity here in Canada that focuses on doing humanitarian work in the country of Dominican Republic.

Louise first went to the Dominican Republic on a vacation. She loved her experience there so much that she bought a timeshare and continued to go back for some R&R (rest and relaxation). However, R&R didn’t last long. Louise has always been a go-getter, and once she started leaving the resort and seeing the great poverty and needs of the people, she could no longer simply rest and relax. She now devote countless hours and energy to help meet the needs of many, many people.

Louise dreams big and accomplishes the unthinkable. Over the past decade Louise has fundraised tirelessly. And she humbly shares the credit with many others, including her God. The foundation has built 250 homes, a school, a library, and a community centre. The foundation also supports education and assists many children and adults to get an education. Her next big dream is to build a Women’s shelter/girls’ orphanage. A recent fundraiser she helped to host and organize raised $150, 000 USD, which brought the reality of the Women’s shelter/girls’ orphanage into view.

I’m so proud of Louise, and so honored to be her daughter. – Bonnie

Iris Apfel

Image may contain Iris Apfel Sunglasses Accessories Accessory Human and Person

Iris Apfel was born on August 29th, 1921 in Queens, New York. She was an interior designer, business woman, and fashion icon known for flamboyant style, quick wit, and oversized glasses. She was catapulted into fame in 2005 at the age of 85 when the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art asked her to showcase some of her clothing and accessories. The exhibit became a huge success through online promotion from visitors. She playfully gave herself the title of ‘geriatric starlet’

In 2011 she developed a limited edition collection of make-up for MAC Cosmetics. Regarding this she said, “I’m the oldest living broad that ever graced a major cosmetics campaign.”

In 2013 at the age of 92 she listed as one of the fifty best dressed over 50 by British newspaper The Guardian

In 2019 Mattel released a Barbie doll modeled after Iris’s image. She is the oldest person to have a Barbie modeled after her. The same year she also signed a modeling contract with IMG models.

She lived by the mantra, “More is more and less is a bore.” Her unique style brought joy and inspired many people. – Dana S

Source: https://www.worldofinteriors.com/story/iris-apfel-eccentricity

https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20240302-how-iris-apfel-became-an-icon-in-her-90s

 https://www.worldofinteriors.com/story/iris-apfel-eccentricity

https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20240302-how-iris-apfel-became-an-icon-in-her-90s

Kenojuak Ashevak

Kenojuak Ashevak is recognized as one of the most notable pioneers of modern Inuit art. She focused her work mainly in print, but also explored other mediums such as blanket work, stained glass pieces and wood carving. Her artwork focused on depicting natural beings, especially birds, in bold, simple forms. Ashevak rose to prominence in the 1960s and quickly gained international recognition. She continued producing works up until her death in 2013, with much of her career’s acclaim coming in older adulthood. She received honorary degrees from both the University of Toronto and Queen’s University. In 1967 Ashevak was awarded the Order of Canada and a Companion of the Order of Canada in 1982. Ashevak was awarded the Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts in 2008 and the Order of Nunavut in 2012. A Canadian Heritage Minute was released in 2016 featuring Ashevak, the first to be presented in English, French and Inuktitut. Ashevak’s work (Owl’s Bouquet) was featured in 2017 on the commemorative Canada 150 $10 bill.  Her work continues to be exhibited in galleries and museums internationally. – Katie W

Source:  https://steinbruecknativegallery.com/kenojuak-ashevak/

Bea Arthur

Bea Arthur - Death, Golden Girls & Facts

Throughout her television stardom, [Bea] Arthur had close friendships and connections with gay men in Hollywood. Her son remembered parties at their house with celebrities like Rock Hudson. Those connections with gay men—and The Golden Girls’ status as a queer-friendly show—led her to political activism. In 2005, Arthur heard from a friend that the Ali Forney Center, an organization for homeless LGBT youth in New York City, was facing financial hardship. Arthur flew from Los Angeles to New York to mount a benefit performance of “Bea Arthur on Broadway,” raising $40,000 for the center and helping to get it through the recession of the 2000s. Arthur left $300,000 to the center in her will, which opened an eighteen-bed shelter, the Bea Arthur Residence for LGBT Youth, in 2017.

Despite her continued identification with the theater in the 2000s, it was clearly television audiences that most warmly embraced Bea Arthur’s “strong women,” and it was through television that Arthur most influenced American culture. On Maude, Arthur helped break down television barriers and normalize topics like abortion and alcoholism as subjects for open discussion; on Golden Girls, the characters openly addressed female sexuality, transgender identity, and HIV/AIDS. Perhaps even more importantly, Arthur’s distinctive portrayals of Maude and Dorothy challenged and reshaped Americans’ conceptions of women and gender. The sharp-tongued hero who does not conform to cultural standards of youthful beauty or wifely duty but who holds herself tall and speaks her mind has been a rarity in American popular culture. Bea Arthur embodied this rarity and helped to usher in a new culture more open to challenging gender stereotypes and embracing divergent sexual identities.  

Arthur passed away on April 25, 2009, at the age of 86. – Tyler

Source: https://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/arthur-bea 

Nola Ochs

128_Getting_100_on_her_Final_Exam_PassItOn.jpg

Nola Ochs was born in Kansas in 1911, one year before the state amended the constitution to recognize women’s right to vote. Back then, Kansas was a patchwork quilt of counties traversed by roads and railroad tracks all converging in Kansas City. A sea of wheat rolling across the plains would later inspire the lyric “amber waves of grain.” There were farms and more farms, and everybody had a job to do.

Nola Ochs was raised under the endless sky, and the long arc of the sun marked her chore-filled days. Her life was not extraordinary by most measures. She grew and married, had children and grandchildren, taught in rural schools, and lived the quiet Midwest life. But she got her associate degree at age 77.

“I still wanted to go to school. It was fun to go to classes. And if I had an assignment to do in the evening, that occupied my time in a pleasant way,” she recalled.

After some years went by, Nola again got the bug to learn. She emailed an academic adviser at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kan., mentioning that she had taken a course from the university years earlier. After some digging, the adviser located a 3-inch-by-5-inch card stored in the basement of the administration building stating that Nola had indeed been a student, in 1930. When the adviser emailed back, she asked, “Nola, how old are you?”

Learning takes time, and moving through courses must be done on your own time, at your own pace. When Nola had 30 hours of school left to complete, she moved 100 miles away from her farm, got an apartment and attended classes in person. She graduated with her granddaughter in 2007.

Nola could have been finished then with her long life of learning. She was, after all, 95 years young. “I don’t dwell on my age,” Nola said back then. “It might limit what I can do. As long as I have my mind and health, it’s just a number.”

Nola decided to keep going. She lived in the student dorms and got her master’s degree in liberal studies with an emphasis on history three years later, at age 98.

What keeps us young is not comparing ourselves to others. It is not the latest health craze. What keeps us young is a passion for learning everything we can about the world we live in. It’s about seeing everyone we meet as a teacher, knowing they have something worthwhile to offer. Nola lived a long and productive life, but her work was still not done. As the sun bent its great arc across the sky, Nola was at work, plowing the fields of her mind, harvesting the best bits into a memoir.

A hundred years yields a lot of wisdom. But it’s the process that can teach us all. Learn everything you can. Share your crops with the neighbors. And never, never give up on yourself. At 105, Nola finished her memoir. – Diane

Source: https://gazette.com/life/nola-ochs-went-back-to-college-at-95-at-100-she-had-earned-her-bachelor/article_df04a732-63b2-11ee-85c5-0f65ede7d868.html

Jack, Sam and Marlene Thompson

My grandparents have always emphasized the importance of family. My Grandpa Jack and Grandma Sam, pictured first, have always been there to support my large extended family, and ensure everyone always knew they would never be left without help or support. I have always known that I have a place to turn to, a family to support me or a place to go if I needed. After my Grandma Sam’s passing, my grandpa remarried my Grandma Marlene. Together, always with Grandma Sam in mind, they have continued to ensure our family is a place where not only biological family members can go to for help and support, but friends who have become family, or strangers who need to be picked up. Because my grandparents have always instilled inclusion and the importance of loving thy neighbor, my aunts, uncles and mom have passed down the same messaging to myself, my brother and my cousins. I am so proud to be a part of a family that is helpful, loving and inclusive. My Grandma Sam always said, “Offer it up!” serving as a constant reminder to always help where you can because the impacts of giving are longstanding. – Amy C

Julia Child

Julia Child

My love of cooking started early and I would spend hours going through my mothers cookbooks and trying new recipes. Two of my favorite cookbooks were Julia Child’s Mastering the Art of French Cooking. I learnt how to cook french onion soup, beef stew, and roast chicken from her. Julia is an icon when it comes to celebrity chefs.

The famously adored chef, author, and television personality is a familiar name in the homes and hearts of Americans to this day. But, she wasn’t always known for her delicious recipes and humorous dialogue.

After working in media and advertising, Julia decided to learn how to cook while living in France. She turned her newfound hobby into a trailblazing career – not without hitting some major bumps in the road.

Julia published her first cookbook at 50 years old. Then, she turned into a celebrity chef with her own TV show. She also became the first woman to be inducted into the Culinary Institute of America’s Hall of Fame. – Dannie

Source: https://vantageaging.org/blog/success-later-in-life/

Yul Kwon

A lot of us set goals like eating more vegetables or watching less TV, but 80-year-old Yul Kwon aims to have the body of someone 20 years younger — and he’s done it.  The trim former business professor has run more than 30 marathons and an equal number of half-marathons since he took up the sport 20 years ago with this daughter.

“I’ll keep it up until I collapse,” Kwon said Wednesday before a short training run near the University of British Columbia with his daughter, Dr. Janice Kwon, a surgical oncologist in Vancouver.  “I haven’t been injured,” he says of his brilliant, if belated, running career. “Running and training for a marathon is not that risky.” His daughter also has a theory: “He didn’t start running competitively until his 60s so his joints are well-preserved.” Kwon will be among a select group of 50 athletes over the age of 70 at this year’s BMO Vancouver Marathon, according to organizers. More than 1,000 over-60 competitors are signed up. The smaller size of the age category means Kwon can keep an eye on his competition. In Boston, he made sure no one wearing an “80+” on their running bib passed him.  

His daily routine includes 100 sit ups and 100 push ups, as it has for decades. It takes commitment to get out the door, he says, but the thrill of running and winning appeals to his nature.  Kwon and his wife Joanne say they never could have dreamt of coming to Canada without the scholarships they received decades ago. One of the reasons he is running two marathons in less than a month is to raise money for the Kwon Family Scholarship created in conjunction with the Vancouver Korean-Canadian Scholarship Foundation. – Camille

Reference: Retired 80-year-old professor to run the BMO Vancouver Marathon | Vancouver Sun

Marjorie Machen-Brouwer (Marj in Charge)

I first met Marjorie in 2014 when working at a fitness facility and instantly was drawn to her magnetic personality. In her early 40s she was a model, fitness leader, personal trainer, and triathlete.

In December 2008 she was on a cycle ride training for an ironman ibn Texas when she was hit by a distracted driver texting while driving and it changed her life forever. The accident resulted in a spinal cord injury – she has no feeling from the chest down and has limited use of her arms and hands.

A few years after her accident, she came back to the YWCA 3 days per week to ride a wheelchair accessible bike for 70 minutes. Later, she began leading spin classes at the YWCA fitness center. She came as a keynote speaker for 2016 Power of Being a Girl conference sharing her story and inspiring youth on overcoming obstacles. She is an advocate for individuals with limitations and disabilities. In August 2024 she held an art show to sell her paintings.

She refuses to live her life as a victim and hopes to inspire others.

I am blessed to know Marjorie and call her a friend. – Andrea

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O47Q3rKii3s

David Suzuki

Press photos - David Suzuki Foundation

Someone who I find to be quite inspiring is David Suzuki. As a renowned environmental activist, geneticist, and broadcaster, he has dedicated his life to advocating for sustainability and raising awareness about climate change. Through his work, particularly with the David Suzuki Foundation, he has been a tireless champion for environmental protection, focusing on the urgent need to address climate issues.

Even in his eighties, Suzuki remains active, speaking out on critical issues and engaging with younger generations to inspire them to take action for the planet. His passion for nature and commitment to social justice has made a profound impact on environmental policy in Canada and beyond. Suzuki’s ability to blend scientific insight with compelling storytelling has educated countless individuals about the importance of protecting our ecosystems.

His legacy is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to make a difference and that age should not be a barrier to activism. Suzuki’s unwavering dedication continues to inspire people of all ages to work toward a more sustainable and equitable world. – Marissa