Our Stories

At 101, Millie Borchert's life is a straightforward tale of adventure, adaptation, hard work, and family bonds. Her story, stretching over a century, offers a firsthand look at the major shifts from the 20th to the early 21st century, seen through the perspective of someone who has dealt with change through determination and enthusiasm. Currently living in Okanagan Chateau, a beautiful retirement community in British Columbia, Millie reflected on her life's journey. From her childhood on a farm to her travels across the United States with her late husband, Ernie, eventually settling into a comfortable life in western Canada and watching their small family of four grow with four grandchildren and the same number of great-grandkids.  

In the rural Ontario town of Uxbridge sits the vibrant retirement community of Douglas Crossing where Helen Lee resides. The 95-year-old has been a resident of the Uxbridge community since its doors opened in 2017 and her story is one of resilience, joy, and an unwavering enthusiasm for an active and productive life. Lee is in her seventh year at Douglas Crossing with an enduring love for the community she calls home after a life rich with experience, service, and family. “I love it here. I love the food, the activities and especially the people. Everyone is so friendly,” she said.

In the charming community of Harvest Crossing, a story unfolded that reminds us how ageless love is. It’s a tale of second chances and the joy of rediscovering love, even in the golden years. This is the story of Aspira Harvest Crossing residents Frances Nevill and Andy Fitch.

These days West Park Crossing resident Ann Speirs enjoys a fulfilling life in retirement living. Before making the move into the vibrant Moosejaw residence, Ann was married to the love of her life, Arnold Speirs. Their tale of love stretches from Alberta to Saskatchewan and it’s a fitting story to celebrate Valentine’s Day. They enjoyed many years together filled with music, faith, laughter, and adventure. All of which speaks volumes about love's timeless nature.
Ann’s early life and how she met Arnold
Annie Lu-Ella Armistead – or “Ann” as she is known - had a childhood marked by frequent relocations due to her father's job with the Co-op. It was a blend of familial warmth and early loss. Her mother's passing when Ann was just 12 left a void, but the loving care from her father left a comforting echo throughout her life. Music was her refuge and joy, from piano melodies to choir harmonies, with gospel music nurturing her soul in later life.

Thelma and Weldon Kilburn's romance is a tale of enduring affection and shared adventure. Joining the vibrant community of Aspira Peninsula in June of 2018, this remarkable couple’s bond embodies the spirit of romance and Valentine's Day all year round.

In the welcoming retirement community of Orchard Valley, a story of lasting love and commitment shines brightly, serving as an inspiring example of dedication and partnership. Blanche and Bob, both popular Orchard Valley residents, recently celebrated an extraordinary 70 years of marriage on November 28th, 2023. Their journey together, defined by love, patience, and shared moments, offers valuable insights into the essence of a lasting bond.

Their secrets to a lasting marriage
The rare milestone that was their 70th anniversary was sweetened further by the thoughtful actions of Kim Magarvey, General Manager at Orchard Valley, who presented them with flowers and a card, recognizing their seven decades of united happiness. But what is the secret to such a long and enduring marriage? Blanche believes it's all about patience and understanding. “Have patience with each other,” she said. Bob thinks it's about sharing everything with the other person and “keeping an open mind”. These simple yet impactful principles have been the foundation of their long-standing relationship.

In the serene, welcoming environment of Lynde Creek Gardens, Harold Hoskings shared a life story that mirrors the depth and complexity of his impressive landscape artworks. Born and raised in Port Hope, 95-year-old Harold's journey has been a tale of love, hard work, and a continuous pursuit of learning and creativity.

Mike Fisher's life story is one of passion, adaptability, and community. His journey from a small town in northern England to the vibrant community at Island View retirement home encapsulates a life rich in experiences and achievements.

In the golden years of life, every day is a chance to relive cherished passions and reignite old flames. For two women residents at Harvest Crossing, a recent outing to see the Toronto Blue Jays in action at the Rogers Centre was not just an evening of baseball; it was an example of the excitement a life in a retirement community can bring.

In the serene surroundings of Saskatoon’s Hunter Village retirement community, an extraordinary family story unfolds. Lyle Poley, an 80-year-old former farmer and his centenarian mother Esther Poley call the residence home. This story is not just about a strong family bond, it’s also a reflection of the changing dynamics of retirement living.

The Aspira Astoria Retirement residence in the center of Port Coquitlam is not just an emblem of premium senior living, it is also a beacon of community spirit and kindness. This Thanksgiving, Astoria reaffirmed its commitment to community welfare by serving up a delicious slice of charity and gratitude.

At 93, Bill Reid possesses the vibrant spirit of a much younger man and artistic skills that have stood the test of time. Now residing at Aspira Traditions of Durham in Oshawa, Reid continues to live a life devoted to his art and his family.

Early life and studying his craft
Bill's journey as an artist began at an early age. "I started pretty young," he recalled, with a hint of nostalgia. Even as a child in the first or second grade, his talent was evident and Bill continued to hone that craft before studying art in Minneapolis. After graduating from university he embarked on a professional career as an art director for a company called Photoplate. While there, Bill (pictured above) was the sole artist, however, his artistic spirit wanted more than that job could offer and he moved on.

At 105 years young, Edna Dobie, is a fascinating and affable resident of Aspira West Park Crossing in Moosejaw, Saskatchewan. Born in the remote town of Kelso, Saskatchewan in 1918, Edna's childhood was filled with adventure and resilience.