A Lifetime of Love, Friendship, and Community
For Sondra and Larry, every chapter of life has been an adventure shared together — from their early years in Florida and Wisconsin to the new friendships and peace of mind they’ve found at The Colonnade and Sun City Grand. Fifty-five years later, Sondra and Larry are still writing a story filled with laughter, shared purpose and an enduring sense of togetherness.
From Coast to Heartland
Sondra grew up in Florida after her family moved south from Pennsylvania. Larry, born and raised in Virginia, then served fours years in the U.S. Air Force. Stationed in Goose Bay, Labrador, Canada (they had tunnels to get around because of all the snow) and later stationed in Homestead Florida. He met Sondra soon after graduating from college. The two married in November of 1970 (on Friday the 13th) and began a life filled with adventure, family and dedication.
Their marriage led them to Kentucky and then Wisconsin, where they spent 27 years raising children and building fulfilling careers. Larry worked with General Electric Company for nearly three decades, beginning in statistics before moving into Human Resources. “I found I really enjoyed developing people,” he says. Later, he joined Case Corporation for another 10 years before retiring in 1998. His work took him across Europe and Asia, leading teams and creating programs that helped employees thrive.
Sondra also built a career she loved. “Since I was a child, I wanted to be a secretary, and I loved every minute of it, she shares. Starting at General Electric in Florida just two days after high school graduation, Sondra later worked as a legal secretary and paralegal, specializing in estate planning, probate law and taxes. “I was lucky to attend a high school with a complete business program with typing, shorthand, accounting, business English — all the tools I needed.” She even still has all of her shorthand textbooks.
Family First
Between them, Sondra and Larry have four children and nine grandchildren spread across Georgia, Wisconsin, Colorado, and Arkansas. Family has always been at the heart of Sondra and Larry’s story. “We’ve been blessed with wonderful children and grandchildren,” Sondra says. “Watching them grow and succeed has been one of life’s greatest joys.”
A New Beginning in Arizona
In 1999, the couple moved to Sun City Grand, where they built their dream home and spent 16 wonderful years. The decision came about almost by chance. Their youngest daughter wanted to attend Arizona State University in Tempe, so Sondra and Larry loaded a truck with her and her friend’s belongings and made the drive from Wisconsin. During the trip, they visited one of Larry’s former colleagues from General Electric who lived in Sun City West. “We wanted to take them to lunch at the Sun City Grand Bistro,” Sondra recalls. “We drove over Grand Avenue into Sun City Grand and knew right then it was where we should retire.”
In 2014, Sondra and Larry moved into The Colonnade. “We watched our Villa being built from the ground up,” Sondra says proudly. “Larry and I are the only people who have ever lived in our unit; it’s truly our home. We loved that The Colonnade was part of Del Webb’s original vision for this community. After being shown around, we knew this was where we wanted to live and have never looked back.”
Finding Friendship and Purpose
From the start, Sondra and Larry immersed themselves in the community. They served as Ambassadors, welcoming new residents and participating in games and events. Larry was also deeply involved in community governance, helping to shape Neighbor Helping Neighbor and assisting with Resident Council elections, which is a natural extension of his leadership background.
They quickly formed close friendships, too. “We met two couples the first week we moved in” says Sondra. “Since then, we’ve traveled the world together. They’ve become our dearest friends.” Sondra and Larry have traveled to Australia, the Panama Canal, Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean, and have been on a few River Cruises and many Ocean Cruises.
Beyond that circle, the couple has found warmth throughout the community. “There are so many wonderful, lovely residents here,” says Sondra. “It truly feels like family.”
Why They Love Life at The Colonnade
Ask Sondra and Larry what they love most, and they’ll tell you it’s impossible to choose just one thing. “The residents, the employees, the amenities…they’re all wonderful,” Sondra says. “Living here has been a blessing.”
Larry agrees, crediting the community’s safety, services, and support with improving their health and happiness. “Living at The Colonnade has added ten years to my life,” he says with a smile.
From 24/7 EMT or Nurse assistance and responsive maintenance to delicious dining and beautiful spaces, they appreciate the peace of mind that comes from knowing help is always close by. “If something breaks, maintenance takes care of it right away.” There are drivers for doctor appointments and grocery shopping, busses for group outings, entertainment, card and game groups, so much more. Sondra adds “And the staff always go above and beyond!”
Words of Wisdom for Future Residents
When friends ask about The Colonnade, Sondra doesn’t hesitate. “You can’t go wrong,” she says. “It’s a true blessing to live here.”
Larry nods. “It’s not just a community, it’s a home.”
Find your home at SunHealthCommunities.org.
