Have you lived in other places besides Lynden?
Well, I was born in Montana, but I grew up here in Lynden, and I’ve lived here ever since.
What industry did you retire from?
I worked at Whatcom Laundry as a presser. I was in charge of ironing military uniforms from men and women in the Army and Navy. We would also iron nurses’ uniforms, and we had to be careful to make sure all the creases were perfect. Then I moved on to work at the original Christian Health Care Center — in the kitchen, as a cook. After that, I left to work at a few restaurants.
What was your favorite thing about the work you did?
The people I met. I met all different kinds of people and got to know them pretty well. It was also gratifying when I would cook a good meal and the residents would enjoy it.
If you could have any type of food today, what would it be?
Oh boy, good old potatoes and gravy, meat, veggies and a nice big salad. That’s what I used to cook, and it was good!
What is one thing that you have been most proud of in your life?
I’ve lived a long and happy life. I had really good friends, and my family has made me very proud.
What is one thing you did or experienced that was scary?
Well, when I would start a new job, it was a new experience, and I would get nervous. I wanted to be a good cook and presser because it was important to me.
What was your favorite decade to live in, and why?
I liked them all!
What is one life lesson that you learned from your parents?
My parents taught me to be honest, and they guided my life. Honesty goes far.
What is one piece of advice that you would give a 16-year-old person today?
Do what makes you happy. Life is what you make of it; if you want a good life, you make the most of it. If you want a rowdy one, well, that’s up to you!
What is one thing most people don’t know about you, but you wish they did?
I was a baseball player! I played with my friends and family out at the park, and we always had a good time. My friends and I, we always liked going to basketball games, and especially church services. That was always real important to me. To this day, I’m still a member at the First Christian Reformed Church.
You’ve lived through other historical events — wars and recessions and such. What do you think of the pandemic that we’re living through now?
This sure is a scary time, nothing like I’ve ever seen before. I worry about it and about the younger generations. I sure hope it gets better.
What is one thing that you like about living at CHCC?
The care is really good, and I love when the helpers take me outside to sit in the courtyard to see the beautiful flowers.