Making new friends when you’re older can be a challenge, especially when you find yourself in a completely new environment. But The Gatesworth offers residents lots of opportunities to socialize and share common interests—including a seven-hole putting green for golf enthusiasts of all abilities. Three happy hackers shared their experiences with us.
[pat allen, age 94]
When I moved in five years ago, I was so afraid I’d be lonely. I’m from Kansas City and didn’t know a soul in St. Louis, except for one of my daughters who lives here six months a year. But the other residents kept asking me to join them for dinner or happy hour. This place is such fun. I take three exercise classes a week, and there’s a putting green! I’ve always loved golf. When the mood strikes, a couple of the girls and I grab a club and hit the green.
Not long after I moved in, I visited my daughter in California. As she drove me to the airport, I promised I’d call as soon as I got ‘home’—and that’s when I realized The Gatesworth was my home.
[tom burke, age 74]
Before I retired, I was purchasing director for a division of GM in Chicago. Two of our six children and their families live here and told us about The Gatesworth. We’ve been here a year now. It’s spectacular. Cookie, my wife, calls it a stationary cruise ship! The staff and residents are wonderful. They made the transition easy. I go out to lunch with the guys at least once a month, and couples and singles go out on the town together. We also have three restaurants on site, and the food is amazing! If not for the fitness center, pool and putting green, I’d weigh 2,000 pounds.
I’m an avid golfer. I learned the game when I caddied as a boy. Caddyshack is required viewing in our family. I work on my putt at The Gatesworth’s putting green. They’re having putting contests this spring and summer, and it’s a great way to make new friends. You can bet Cookie and I will be out there.
[jack ward, age 77]
Donna and I moved here a year and a half ago. I grew up in St. Charles, but left the area in 1970. My career as a real estate/golf course developer took us all over the country. We never intended to come back, but The Gatesworth won us over. It’s better than anything we saw in Scottsdale or Dallas—and I don’t have to mow the lawn!
Everyone is so welcoming. We go to the theater, opera and museums, and to a different restaurant every week. If I’m off fishing or golfing, I know Donna has plenty to do, friends to do it with and a limo to take her there. Myself, I like the putting green. Putting is half the game. It’s a good way to stay fit as you age, because it doesn’t take extra power—just skill.
By Tony Di Martino
Photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured: Residents Jack Ward, Pat Allen and Tom Burke
The Gatesworth is located at One McKnight Place. For more information, call 314.993.0111 or visit thegatesworth.com.
