Don Vavra celebrates 80

By Suzanne Wilson
Sun contributor

Proof that a cheerful man creates his own sunshine was evident last Sunday. Don Vavra celebrated his 80th birthday, and in spite of grey skies and a cold wind off the bay, over one hundred of his friends came to share in the grand party.
Don’s birthday party gave us all the gift of a pleasant time to visit with friends and neighbors before the start of a busy summer. Cars lined the street reminiscent of the days of Fourth of July fireworks, and Glen Arbor felt like a good, friendly place to find yourself that day.
It is hard to think that there might be anyone in Glen Arbor who doesn’t know Don. He keeps in shape as a seemingly tireless walker, often with his little dachshund, Frankie(furter). His walk is not of the speedwalking type though, he always takes time to stop and chat and to spread some goodwill to everyone he meets.
A gathering like this is a reminder of what an interesting little town Glen Arbor is. The conversations I was in ranged from archeology in New Mexico to a newly acquired apartment in Paris, thoughts from a person about to leave for a Peace Corps stint in South Africa, and an in-depth discussion of family dynamics. And of course there were many gifts that related to Don’s trip to Australia in the year preceding this 80th birthday. Many happy returns, Don! If you give another party we will all come.