At 81, My Job is Key to My Well-Being, Not My Wallet

Reflecting on my decision to leave the corporate world at 55, I sometimes wonder if it was premature. However, taking that buyout was one of the best choices I've made, and I stand by it with no regrets.

Having recently celebrated my 81st birthday, I am approaching two significant milestones: in two years, I will have reached my 15-year anniversary at REI, the renowned outdoor retailer. This milestone serves as a source of motivation. Meanwhile, my wife, who is 74, continues to work part-time. Our financial independence allows us the luxury of working by choice rather than necessity, and retirement is not on our immediate horizon.

We frequently face questions about our continued employment: 'Why do you still work if you don't need the income?' The truth is, in your 70s and 80s, many peers experience health decline or pass away, leading to a loss of social engagement. Staying employed keeps me dynamic, fosters new connections, and invites fresh experiences into my life.

A Lifetime of Hard Work

My work journey began early. As a child of about eight, I helped at my father's grocery store. Later, during high school, I took on a job in a butcher's shop, which contributed to my college expenses since I put myself through school as a cooperative education student in engineering.

My first employer offered to cover graduate school costs if I gained admission. This support led me to acquire two master's degrees from New York University—one in engineering in 1969, and when I realized it wasn't my path, another in operational research in 1971. I dabbled in various analytical and management roles before joining a startup in the 1980s, sparking my interest in business organization. By 1990, I had transitioned to working at a credit card company.

Continuous Learning and Working

In 1996, I furthered my education with a master's in organizational development from Pepperdine University while at the credit card company. By 1999, I retired as the assistant vice president of training and development, joining my wife in her HR consulting venture.

My motivation to remain active is partly influenced by my mother, who began working at McDonald's in her late 70s to stave off boredom following my father's passing.

Pursuing Passions at REI

Besides helping my wife, I taught organizational development at Webster University, fulfilling that role until 2020. Before joining REI, I explored various part-time opportunities, including working at a cruise terminal as a check-in agent and as a golf course ranger.

Drawn by my love for cycling, I joined REI for their employee discounts. Initially, I worked in other departments, but my interest naturally steered me to the action sports division, which covers kayaking, hiking, and biking. My role involves customer interaction and organizing products within my area. My dedication paid off when I received REI's prestigious Anderson Award last year.

A Community of Experience

Starting at REI, I was the solitary employee over 65, but now there's a small group of about five older team members. We’ve dubbed ourselves the Silverbacks. Among us is a retired Navy captain and a social connections enthusiast focused on mentoring youth.

In 2019, I initiated a survey at our store to gauge employee happiness. Our older team members reported high job satisfaction and less concern for promotions, having found roles they love and excel in.

Enjoying Work Without Financial Pressure

Financially, my role at REI isn’t essential—our lifestyle is comfortable with our pensions and retirement withdrawals. My pay began at $9 or $10 hourly, now $18, which I set aside in a separate account. Last year, I earned about $7,700, with REI contributing to a 401(k) plan.

This income funds my hobbies and outings with my son, like enjoying horror movie marathons. Even as my work hours reduced—and with them, my earnings—I spend carefully.

My goal is to persist at REI for at least another two years to achieve my 15-year tenure and possibly continue beyond. Though my health is generally good, I remain mindful of potential age-related health concerns, focusing on living life to its fullest while enjoying my work.