A group of residents from St. Joseph’s John Knox Village retirement community went on the trip of the lifetime Wednesday, when they all took flight in a 1941 World War II Boeing Stearman biplane.

  • Community members have also gone on hot air balloon rides, indoor skydiving
  • Activities director maintains that adventure keeps the residents sharp, healthy
  • Next adventure for the group? Glider plane rides

The group included newlyweds Dick and Fran Stanton, who met at the retirement community after their spouses passed away.

Dick is 96. Fran is 87.

Fran Stanton told us her husband brings out the adventure in her.

"I wouldn't do half of the things that I have done if he didn't say 'Well, if I'm going to do it, then you've got to do it,'" Fran said.

"We really believe that you have to keep active and keep moving to keep things going properly," Dick said.

Photo: Katie Jones, staff

Besides riding in planes, the residents have gone on hot air balloon rides and indoor skydiving. Village Director of Activities Laurie Ferguson said the adventure keeps them sharp and healthy.

"When I see their smiles, it makes me really happy that I'm doing a good job for them providing that quality of life, and you see it on their faces," Ferguson said.

When Dick Stanton was asked what gives them the motivation and courage to tackle the action packed experiences, he said the answer is easy.

"You just can't sit in the chair," he said. "We just have to do it, get out and go."

Ferguson said their next adventure will involve taking rides on a glider plane.