At an age when most people have long settled into retirement, 91-year-old Richard Lundstrom is still starting his mornings with a walk to work and a smile.
For nearly 25 years, he has been a constant presence at the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Beach Community Center, and for many, he’s the heart of the building.
Lundstrom first began working at the center when the facility opened its doors in 2001. Nearly a quarter-century later, he still works at least 30 hours a week and does a little bit of everything, from greeting residents at the front desk to helping with event rentals, cleaning, painting, and even handling repairs.
“It’s the Cheerios, that’s the secret,” he joked when asked how he’s maintained his energy all these years.
Those who know him best say it’s more than cereal, it’s his spirit.
“Richard is very well liked,” said his wife, Constance Lundstrom. “He is very helpful to everybody, and he shows respect to people.”
Lundstrom says the environment keeps him motivated.
“Team effort… great people to work for. The city’s great, from the upper echelon down to employees,” he said.
The feeling is mutual. Ask anyone who walks through the doors of the Beach Community Center, and you’ll hear the same thing: Richard is the person who makes the building feel like home.
Even now, at 91, he takes pride in every task and every interaction.
“The best part is the people,” he said. “You meet so many great people from the city here.”
For Lundstrom, continuing to work isn’t just a routine, it’s purpose.
“As long as I’m able to physically and mentally be here, and I feel really great, that means a lot,” he said.
His wife agrees and believes he’ll keep going as long as he can.
“I see him going until he can’t, and I will encourage it,” she said. “I have to be thankful that he is still able to do things.”
After almost 25 years of service, Lundstrom continues to show that passion, community, and purpose don’t come with an age limit.