Living in Harmony: Don’s Vibrant Life at The Sequoias San Francisco

Moving to a retirement community doesn’t mean slowing down; it can be the beginning of a new, enriching chapter. Just ask Don, a resident at The Sequoias San Francisco, whose days are filled with music, teaching, and deep connections. From his lifelong love of San Francisco to his dedication to music, Don’s story is a testament to the joy and fulfillment found in community living.

Don and his wife, Ada, have called San Francisco home for decades. After meeting in college and living in Houston, they visited the city on vacation and fell in love with its charm, walkability, and cultural diversity. “We just did it,” Don recalls. “We sold everything and moved here—and never looked back.”

The transition from a car-dependent city like Houston to the pedestrian-friendly streets of San Francisco was refreshing. Don fondly remembers walking through Nob Hill and seeing school children running in and out of corner stores—a scene that cemented his love for the city’s community spirit.

For Don and Ada, moving to The Sequoias was a proactive choice. “We’ve seen friends and family go through aging transitions, and we wanted to take control of our own journey,” Don explains. Without children or nearby family, they sought a supportive environment where they could remain independent and engaged.

Their daily life at The Sequoias is busier than ever. Mornings begin with breakfast among friends, followed by time in their community garden, where Don and Ada both tend to their plots. Afternoons are spent pursuing personal passions—Ada in her art studio and Don with his music—before gathering for dinner with neighbors. “We’re living the same life we did before,” Don shares, “but it’s richer now.”

Music has always been a part of Don’s life, though it took a backseat during his career as an architect. Twenty-two years ago, he picked up the ukulele and hasn’t put it down since. “I have a saying: Sing every day,” he smiles. Teaching music became a natural extension of his passion, and for over a decade, he has been helping others discover the joy of playing.

Since moving to The Sequoias, Don has started a ukulele class, gathering residents every Wednesday morning for lessons. What began with just a few interested individuals has grown to a dedicated group of about 12 players. “It’s really about sharing music and watching others learn,” Don says. “Seeing people come together through music is something truly special.”

Beyond The Sequoias, Don teaches at the Japanese Cultural and Community Center in Japantown, offering both in-person and online classes. His love for the ukulele isn’t just about playing—it’s about fostering connections and keeping the spirit of learning alive

Don’s story is a powerful reminder that life doesn’t slow down in a Life Plan Community—it flourishes. Whether tending to his garden, sharing meals with friends, or teaching others the joy of music, Don embodies the spirit of The Sequoias San Francisco: a place where passions thrive, friendships deepen, and every day is an opportunity to grow.

If you’re curious about life at The Sequoias San Francisco, schedule a visit and experience the vibrant community firsthand. Who knows? You might even find yourself strumming along in Don’s next ukulele class!

One of the most pleasant surprises for Don and Ada after moving to The Sequoias has been the depth of the community. “It’s not just superficial friendliness,” Don emphasizes. “People genuinely care for one another here.” The relationships they’ve built have enriched their lives, reinforcing that they made the right decision in choosing a Life Plan Community.

For those considering a move, Don offers simple yet valuable advice: “Don’t be overwhelmed. Just start. The process will move along better than you think.” He encourages future residents to embrace the transition and look forward to the opportunities that await.