What is storytelling? Do we all have stories worth sharing? To a dedicated group of Oak Hammock residents, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Each of us carries a story shaped by our travels, professions, challenges and passions—a story that, when shared, not only connects us with others but also becomes a meaningful gift to our families and friends.
The most resonant stories are those that highlight the challenges the storyteller has faced—and how they responded. These moments of vulnerability and perseverance are what make a story truly memorable.
Since 2014, the Adventures in Living team, part of the Institute for Learning in Retirement, or ILR, has spotlighted the life journeys of several Oak Hammock residents each year. These stories are presented as part of ILR’s summer programming, offering community members a glimpse into the fascinating lives of their neighbors.
“You are the perfect person to tell your story.” – Lin-Manuel Miranda
To date, more than 64 residents and community members have shared compelling accounts of their experiences—from education and military service to art, public service, travel and beyond. Many begin with reflections on heritage—such as when their grandparents immigrated to the U.S.—or anecdotes about brushes with historical figures. Included in this article are just a few of their stories.
For example, Ann Meyers told her life story through sketches and art, sharing memories of traveling through India and Central America. She also lived for a while in St. Croix, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. A particularly memorable detail: her great-grandfather once sold a pair of shoes to Abraham Lincoln!
Janet Janke’s life has been dedicated to books, so she presented her life’s story via power-point slides and showcased her life as though turning the pages of a book. One of Janke’s many accomplishments is she was recently named “National Volunteer of the Year” by the National Association of Activity Professionals, for her exceptional service and dedication for many years of volunteer service throughout Oak Hammock and the greater Gainesville community. As a retired teacher, one of the many causes Janet supports is collecting and donating books to children at the Acorn Clinic, a non-profit organization that provides comprehensive dental care for individuals and families of rural North Central Florida.
Dick Newberg recounted his determination to serve in World War II. After multiple attempts to join the military, a family friend helped him join the Army, where he went on to earn a Silver Star for his bravery during the Battle of the Bulge.
Margaret Boonstra spoke of her remarkable career in the Peace Corps, the Foreign Service and the U.S. State Department, eventually becoming the wife of the U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica under President Lyndon Johnson. Her stories from Panama and Latin America revealed a life rich in diplomacy and firsthand historical witness.
Many Oak Hammock residents have impressive academic and service backgrounds. Walter Winn, for example, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, earned a Ph.D. in engineering from Cornell, and served as a weapons officer aboard a nuclear submarine—retiring with the rank of Commander. Reflecting on his life, he modestly said he was just “a lucky guy.”
“You can change the world just by sharing your story.” – Barack Obama
Behind these stories is a dedicated group of Oak Hammock residents. The Adventures in Living team, Dick Martin, Debbie Dean, Diane Haines, Mary Sue Koppel, Frank Townsend and Jane Wood, have worked together over the years to produce high-quality video presentations that bring these stories to life.
The storytelling process is simple yet meaningful. Diane Haines meets with potential presenters, encouraging them to reflect and share. Some write scripts; others speak more freely using personal photos. Mary Sue Koppel may conduct an interview, depending on the preferred format. Photos are compiled into a slideshow, often enhanced with music. If the presenter opts for a pre-recorded video, Dick Martin and Frank Townsend handle the filming.
As Debbie Dean puts it: “Diane would round them up, and Dick would shoot them!”
Convincing people to participate isn’t always easy. “I need therapy for all the times I’ve been rejected,” Haines jokes. Many are reluctant, worried they’ll sound boastful. But Martin gently reminds them: “If you do it, it’s not bragging. It’s a gift—a legacy for your family.”
“To be a person is to have a story to tell.” – Isak Dinesen
Each recording session takes about an hour and a half, while editing may take up to ten hours. According to Jane Wood, “Dick is a creative genius. He adapts to the needs of each presenter and makes the process go smoothly.”
Looking ahead, the committee hopes to establish a succession plan to ensure this tradition continues. These stories are not only unique to Oak Hammock—they reflect a format similar to the University of Florida’s Samuel Proctor Oral History program—and they are deeply valued by the community.
As Martin explains, “We encourage people to simply tell us their life story. Even when someone says, ‘My life hasn’t been that exciting,’ we remind them: everyone has a story.”
“In the end, we’ll all become stories.” – Margaret Atwood