Senior Living at 104: Robert’s Story of Adventure and Connection

At 104 years old, Robert is still soaring – just in a different way. A former Royal Air Force pilot, he spent years navigating the skies with skill and precision. Today, from the comfort of his home at Atria Kingsdale Château in Kingston, Ontario, he still takes flight. Only now, instead of piloting aircraft, he commands drones.

From fighter jets to flying drones

For Robert, flying has never been just a job – it’s been a lifelong passion. After serving in the Royal Air Force, he turned to building model airplanes, carefully crafting miniature versions of the machines he once flew. When drones arrived on the scene, he saw them as an evolution of his love for aviation.

“It was a natural progression,” he says. “I spent years building model planes, so when drones came along, I thought, why not?” These days, you can often find him flying his drone right inside his apartment, proving that passion knows no age limit.

104 years young and still taking off

Robert’s story is about more than just flight. Over more than a century, he’s embraced fifteen different careers – each one unique, each one an adventure. He never stayed in one place for too long, whether in the sky or on the ground. He’s travelled the world, collecting stories, experiences and memories from places far and wide.

Paris, love and a lifetime of adventures

One city holds a special place in his heart: Paris. It was his and his late wife’s favourite destination, a place they returned to again and again. “We went every three months,” he recalls. “Through work or travel, we always found a reason to go.”

It was a luxury, he admits, but one worth every franc. Paris, with its romance, history and beauty, became a backdrop to their love story ¬– a city of cherished memories they built together.

Exploring without borders

Though he no longer travels, Robert still finds ways to explore. He spends hours researching, reading and looking at photographs of the world. From the comfort of Kingsdale Château, he dives into history and culture, proving that adventure doesn’t require a plane ticket.

Embracing tech at 104

Despite living for over a century, Robert has never shied away from change. Instead of resisting new technology, he embraces it. His fascination with drones is just one example of how he continues to adapt.

He keeps up with the latest advancements in aviation and engineering, watching documentaries and reading about modern aircraft. “You have to keep up with the times,” he says. “There’s always something new to learn.”

Staying sharp, staying social, staying engaged

Robert doesn’t claim to have a secret to longevity. When asked how he’s made it to 104, he simply smiles and shrugs. “I’ve just always been a busy man.” His approach to life has always been about movement and curiosity, and that hasn’t changed with age.

At Kingsdale Château, he stays active – not just physically but also socially. He makes sure to get out of his apartment, stopping by to check his mail and chat with staff and fellow residents. It’s a small but meaningful way to stay connected, something he believes is essential as one gets older.

Flying high, no runway required

Though he spends much of his time in his apartment, he’s far from idle. His love of flight keeps him engaged, and his drone is a constant source of entertainment and challenge. Whether navigating the controls or simply enjoying the act of flying, it brings him joy and a sense of purpose. “It keeps my mind sharp,” he says.

The secret to longevity? Keep moving, keep learning

Robert’s story is a reminder that age isn’t a limitation – it’s simply another chapter, filled with passion, curiosity and new experiences. From flying planes in the Royal Air Force to flying drones in his apartment at Kingsdale Château, his love of flight has never faded.

At 104, he’s still looking ahead, always finding ways to stay engaged and keep his adventurous spirit alive. His journey proves that staying curious, embracing change, and holding on to the things that bring you joy can keep you soaring – no matter where life takes you.

Ready to take off on your next adventure?

Robert’s story is proof that life is an ongoing journey, no matter your age. At Kingsdale Château, you’ll find a welcoming community where you can stay engaged, explore new interests and create your own stories.

If you’re ready to start the next chapter of your story, we’re here to help. Come see what makes Atria Kingsdale Château a place where life keeps soaring.