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Paul Visits Rocky Mountain National Park

When Paul first visited Rocky Mountain National Park in 1938, he fell in love. So much so that he has returned every year for over seven decades. As his 102nd birthday approached, Paul’s Wish of a Lifetime was to return to Rocky Mountain National Park for the 77th consecutive year.

At age 12, Paul was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. 90 years later and a month from his 102nd birthday, Paul is still going strong. As is his marriage; Paul and his wife, Phyllis, just celebrated their 67th anniversary. Paul has visited Rocky Mountain National Park every year since 1938 and doesn’t want to miss his 77th year in a row, which happens to be Rocky Mountain National Park’s 100-Year Anniversary.

For Paul, Rocky Mountain National Park is full of memories. Paul used to get a horse and ride in to the park for a few days and camp in the backcountry. One time, he rode his horse up to the top of what today is Trail Ridge Road and wound up having to bushwhack his way down to the ranger station. He was greeted by surprised looks as all of the rangers were shocked he navigated his way down successfully.

Paul and Phyllis are both great people. Paul has been involved with the Jewish Community Center for years and Phyllis has volunteered with Rose Community Hospital for more than 30 years. Paul has also worked for the Ranch Camp Committee for over 40 years providing leadership, raising funds and holding charity events for an organization that gives children the real mountain experience….A cause close to Paul’s heart.

Wish of a Lifetime and Brookdale were excited to send Paul and Phyllis back to Rocky Mountain National Park. It is a place that holds some of their very best memories, including some from their honeymoon! Paul and Phyllis departed from Brookdale Mountain View on October 20th, 2015 and set out for a very special day at the park. They were greeted by over fifteen park rangers and then spent the day traveling to Bear Lake and up Trail Ridge Road.

Photos courtesy of Ann Schonlan

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October 22, 2015