From growing up in Cincinnati to running a record store for nearly 23 years, working in Las Vegas, dabbling in acting and developing a lifelong love of horror films, Geoff Burkman has never had what you would call a predictable life. Today, Geoff is settling into life at 10 Wilmington Place, where he has found new friends, new hobbies and plenty of opportunities to stay curious.

A Cincinnati Kid at Heart

Born on the East Coast while his father served in the Coast Guard, Geoff spent his earliest years moving around before his family settled in Cincinnati. “My only real memories are from Cincinnati,” he said. “So I’m the Cincinnati boy.” He later attended Brown University, where he studied creative writing and originally thought he might become a writer.

A Life in Music

After college, Geoff moved to Las Vegas with the idea of becoming a blackjack dealer, but quickly found his way into food service instead. A few years later, a friend brought him to Dayton, where he eventually opened Renaissance Records, later Renaissance Music Media. He ran the record store for nearly 23 years and even started selling compact discs before most people knew what they were.

From Records to the Big Screen

Geoff’s love of horror eventually led him to acting. When a friend called to say he was working on George Romero’s Day of the Dead, Geoff jumped at the chance to spend a few days playing a zombie alongside his friend and future wife. He later appeared in several local productions, including The Shadow Box. “It was a lot of fun!” he laughs.

A Movie Fan for Life

Horror, science fiction, action and adventure remain Geoff’s favorite genres. His longtime favorite is 2001: A Space Odyssey, which he estimates he has seen in theaters over 20 times, but he is also always ready for Terminator 2, Aliens or Dawn of the Dead. His love of horror has even become a way to connect with people at 10 Wilmington Place, where he enjoys swapping movie recommendations.

Rediscovering Favorite Hobbies

Geoff has been playing games since junior high, when he became interested in war games. After marriage, children and other responsibilities pushed the hobby aside, he eventually returned to it and now enjoys modern board games, including Agricola, Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride. He has also taken up Euchre at 10 Wilmington, proving that his curiosity has not slowed down.

Finding His Place at 10 Wilmington

After a difficult stretch that included a cancer diagnosis, radiation treatment and a serious bout of the flu, Geoff decided it was time to leave his longtime home in Kettering. His daughters helped research senior living communities, and after visiting several options, 10 Wilmington stood out. “This one just clicked,” Geoff said. “I like the vibe, I like the people. Everybody was very welcoming.”

Words to Live By

With a life full of unexpected turns, Geoff’s advice is simple: “Look after your health. If you don’t have that, you don’t have anything.” He also believes in something just as straightforward: “Be kind.” These days, he continues to follow his curiosity, meet new people and find plenty of things to keep him interested.

Discover Life at 10 Wilmington Place

Every resident brings a unique story to our community. To learn more about life at 10 Wilmington Place and discover what senior living could look like for you or your loved one, schedule a tour at 10 Wilmington Place today.