August: Celebrating Dan Willetts’ 105th Birthday!

The Sons of Norway in Poulsbo recently had the honor of celebrating the 105th birthday of Dan Willett, a remarkable member of our community whose life has been filled with family, adventure, and a love of the outdoors. Our Lodge Pancake Crew made Dan a special Pancake and sang Happy Birthday. 
Dan was born on August 8, 1921, in Minnesota. His family has deep roots in American history, tracing their arrival to America on the second ship to reach Plymouth in 1626. Dan's mother, Ebba, was a full-blooded Swede, and his father came from a multi-national heritage.

Left: Dan and his friend Louise at the August 2nd Pancake Breakfast. Below: The Pancake Crew Presents Dan's Special Birthday Pancake and Sings Happy Birthday.

Growing up in Minnesota, Dan developed a passion for athletics and earned a varsity letter in hockey. His love of sports and the outdoors would remain constant throughout his life.

In 1978, Dan and his wife, Helen, moved to Poulsbo, where their family settled along the waterfront in Lemolo. Not long after putting down roots in the community, Dan and Helen joined the Sons of Norway. According to their son, John, this decision initially caused some good-natured concern for Dan's mother, Ebba, who was a proud member of a Swedish club. Fortunately, family ties won out when Dan's sister married a Norwegian, and Ebba soon came to terms with her son's Norwegian connections.

Dan and Helen shared many wonderful years together before Helen's passing three years ago. Throughout his life, Dan has been a devoted nature lover and avid outdoorsman, following in the footsteps of his father. His appreciation for the outdoors has been passed down through generations and is now shared by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Today, Dan continues to call Poulsbo home. He resides at Brookdale, where he is known for his storytelling, quick wit, and playful teasing of the staff. His stories, humor, and enduring spirit continue to brighten the lives of those around him.

On behalf of everyone at Sons of Norway Poulsbo, we wish Dan a very happy 105th birthday and thank him for sharing his remarkable life, wisdom, and friendship with our community.

Happy 105th Birthday, Dan!


Dan Shares a Moment with Ardis





Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

September: Saying Goodbye to Christina Webster

Image
                        Celebrating and Saying Goodbye to Christina Webster It is with both gratitude and sadness that we say goodbye to our wonderful Office Manager, Christina Webster , as she begins an exciting new chapter in her career. For the past six years, Christina has been the heart of our Sons of Norway Lodge, serving with professionalism and an unwavering commitment to our members and community. While we are thrilled for her as she takes on her new role as Nursing Scheduling Manager at Martha & Mary , we know her departure will leave a tremendous void. During her time with us, Christina's contributions have gone far beyond the responsibilities of managing the Lodge office. She worked alongside Cheryl Hall and Carly Wolfe to revitalize our venue rental marketing efforts, significantly increasing both the visibility of the Lodge and the number of rentals. Her creativity, energy, and willingness to emb...
Read more

October: Celebrating and Saying Goodbye to Koleen Baker

Image
Today, we celebrate Koleen and the incredible nine years she has given to the Sons of Norway family. Koleen, it is difficult to put into words just how much you have meant to our lodge over the years. As our Bar Manager, you became a familiar face, and a presence, who helped make our lodge feel like home. Through busy evenings, special events, celebrations, and everyday gatherings, your work and dedication was felt by everyone who walked through our doors.  The friendships you have built over these nine years and the connections you formed have enriched our lodge and strengthened the sense of community that lies at the heart of the Sons of Norway. While we are saddened to see you leave, we are even more grateful for the time we have had with you. As you begin a new chapter, please let it be known we are proud to have you as part of our Sons of Norway family. Thank you, Koleen, for your nine years of friendship, commitment, and service. The impact you have made cannot be measured si...
Read more

August: Reminders to Members

Image
All members in good standing of the Poulsbo Sons of Norway lodge are EQUAL!  Though members’ past actions are always greatly appreciated, no member is entitled to special consideration because of previous generous acts. Members who wish to request special consideration must contact the current President and/or Secretary of the Board of Directors to request time on the board agenda. Members who need documents, research, or direct one-on-one attention from the Office Manager or the Bar Manager must be considerate and make an appointment.  Do not just pop into the office or bar.   “Quick drop ins” only will be accepted by the Office Manager in the lodge office from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Tuesday through Friday.  Please do NOT drop in before 10:00 am. The Bar Manager will respond to texts Mondays and Fridays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Wednesdays from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm as time is available.  As a matter of courtesy, please send texts only during these hours. Th...
Read more