For Vivian Havenga, life has always been about making the most of the opportunities in front of her. From growing up in a large family in Canton, Ohio, to serving in the U.S. Air Force and building a 30-year career at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Vivian has spent her life working hard, caring for her family and finding her own way forward.

Today, at 10 Wilmington Place, she continues to embrace new experiences, stay active and enjoy the friendships that come with community living. As Vivian puts it, “I've always been an independent person,” a quality that has guided her through decades of change and continues to shape how she approaches each new day.

Finding Her Own Path

Vivian grew up in a family of 13 children, where money was tight and helping out was part of everyday life. After graduating from McKinley High School in Canton, she had hoped to become a teacher, but her father's illness meant she needed to work full time instead. While walking to her job at McCrory's, a local five-and-dime store, she kept seeing military recruitment signs and began considering a different future. At just 18 years old, she enlisted in the Air Force, taking a leap that would carry her far beyond her hometown.

A Career in the Air Force

Vivian's first airplane ride took her from Cleveland to San Antonio, Texas, for basic training. She went on to train as a dental specialist, learning everything from assisting dentists and taking X-rays to supporting procedures and caring for patients. As a woman in the service at a time when women were still relatively new to many military roles, she remembers frequently participating in parades with her fellow servicewomen. She eventually reached the rank of master sergeant and traveled to places including Bermuda, Germany, Puerto Rico and Savannah, Georgia. Looking back, Vivian says her military experience was “good for me all the way around,” opening the door to new skills, friendships and adventures.

A Career That Has Lasted

After marrying her husband, whom she met in the Air Force, Vivian began raising their three children while continuing to build her professional life. Her family moved between military communities before eventually settling in the Dayton area, where she returned to dental work. She ultimately joined the Department of Veterans Affairs, transitioning from dental assisting to the dental laboratory, where she helped create dentures, partial dentures, crowns and bridges. Vivian spent 30 years working in the field, including her military service, and credits the experience she gained early in life with helping her throughout her career.

Family, Memories and the Little Things

Family has remained an important part of Vivian's life, and she carries memories of her husband and children with her every day. She fondly recalls her husband's cooking, especially his homemade lasagna and individual pizzas for the kids, and how he often had dinner started before she returned home from work. She also remembers raising her children while stationed in Bermuda, where getting around with two young children and no driver's license required some creativity. Today, she treasures memories of her daughter, Christine, who passed away at 46, and keeps meaningful reminders of her family's military years close to her. Those memories remain a source of connection to the people and experiences that have shaped her life.

Finding a Community at 10 Wilmington Place

Vivian first visited 10 Wilmington Place at the invitation of a friend, curious to see the entertainment and activities available. She liked what she saw, from the theater to the variety of events, and eventually knew it was a place where she could feel at home. “I've never been bored since I've been here,” she says. Whether she's spending time with neighbors or enjoying an activity downstairs, Vivian appreciates having opportunities to connect with others while still enjoying the privacy of her own apartment. She also values the friendly staff, noting that people make a point to learn residents' names and create a welcoming environment.

Staying Active and Enjoying Every Day

Vivian has no trouble finding ways to fill her days. She enjoys balance classes and the exercise room, takes advantage of group outings and shopping trips, and appreciates having movies and entertainment close by. During warmer months, outdoor events offer even more opportunities to get together with neighbors. She also has the companionship of her beloved 18-year-old cat, who moved in with her. After experiencing several falls and giving up driving, Vivian appreciates having transportation, activities and friendly faces nearby while still having the freedom to spend time in her own apartment. As she explains, “I'm going to keep walking and doing things and enjoying life.”

Vivian's Advice for Living Well

When asked what advice she would share with others, Vivian's answer reflects the independence that has guided her throughout her life: “Always know how to take care of yourself. Don't depend on other people to make you happy.” It's a lesson she has carried from her early days in the Air Force through decades of work and raising a family. Even as life has changed, Vivian remains determined to keep moving, stay involved and enjoy what each day brings.

At 10 Wilmington Place, Vivian has found a community that supports her independence while giving her plenty of opportunities to connect, explore and enjoy life on her terms. Her story is just one example of the experiences, memories and personalities that make our community special.

We invite you to visit 10 Wilmington Place, meet our residents and team, and discover what life in our community could look like for you or someone you love. Schedule your tour today.