When it comes to making the move to a senior living community, few stories are as engaging and instructive as that of Dick Stohr. Recently interviewed by Steve Gurney of the Positive Aging Community, Dick shared his candid experiences—from his distinguished military and professional career to his eventual decision, alongside his wife Beverly, to embrace life in a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) at Westminster at Lake Ridge in Northern Virginia.

A Life of Service and Reinvention

Dick’s journey began in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was born, educated, and married. His early career saw him serve as a naval flight officer, flying P-3 aircraft and participating in historic missions, including Apollo astronaut recoveries. After a decade in the Navy, Dick transitioned to a career as a Department of Defense contractor, rising through the ranks to become a company president.

But Dick’s story is also one of creative reinvention. Inspired by a Parade Magazine article, he rekindled his childhood love of yo-yos, eventually launching a 19-year career teaching “Yo-Yo Fun and the Science of Spin” in schools and libraries. When educational enrichment programs waned, Dick found a new passion in woodturning, later expanding into knife and scissor sharpening with his brother—the “Snippy Bros.”

The Decision to Move: Planning with Purpose

Like many, Dick and Beverly postponed the decision to move to a senior living community, revisiting the idea every few years. However, in their mid-seventies, they resolved not to leave the burden of difficult decisions to their sons, as their own parents had. “We wanted to make the move when we could choose, not when the family had to drag us out,” Dick explained.

Their search was thorough, spanning communities from Fredericksburg to Winchester and Arlington. The Stohrs prioritized a CCRC model that would provide seamless transitions between independent living, assisted living, nursing, and memory care—avoiding the disruption of moving between separate organizations as needs changed. Ultimately, the not-for-profit model and familial atmosphere at Westminster Lake Ridge stood out. “This community acts like a family,” Dick noted, highlighting the supportive environment and integrated care.

Downsizing: The Emotional Challenge

After 35 years in their family home, the move was daunting. Dick emphasized the importance of “taking emotion out of the process,” coining the acronym “STUFF” for “Superfluous Things Underfoot Forever.” The couple used professional services to declutter, donate, and store items—though Dick admits some yo-yos and papers still linger in storage.

Life at Westminster at Lake Ridge: Ten Years On

Now celebrating a decade at Westminster at Lake Ridge, Dick describes a vibrant life enriched by community and purpose. He found a woodworking shop and a tribe of fellow enthusiasts, continuing his passion for woodworking and helping others. The Stohrs value the support system, social connections, and peace of mind that come with living in a community that feels like home.

Dick’s story is a testament to the power of preparation, adaptability, and embracing new chapters with intention. For those considering a similar move, his advice is clear: plan ahead, involve your family, and focus on what truly matters—community, purpose, and peace of mind.

Watch the recording https://www.retirementlivingsourcebook.com/videos/making-the-move-real-life-insights-into-life-plan-community-living