Pictured, from left front and proceeding clockwise: Bob Olson (the man of the hour, looking remarkably spry for someone who has outlived most of his patients), Doug Kirkpatrick, Ken Russo, Dan Harris (photographer), Spike Razem, Wayne Thomas, John Arpan, and Darrell Livingston. Standing behind the table (L-R): Scott Crabtree, Don Paxton (who flew in from Canada the night before!), and Mark Eichkorn.
Dan Harris
In early March, the faithful men of Unit 44 gathered once again at the Eagle’s Nest Restaurant for our monthly breakfast, good food, and even better conversation.
This particular gathering, however, achieved a big turnout—largely because the assembled gentlemen had turned out in force to mark the 92nd birthday of Dr. Bob Olson, Unit 44’s most senior senior and a retired physician who has clearly mastered the art of defying both time and the laws of probability.
The birthday itself had cheekily occurred the day before—typical Bob, always one step ahead—but who among us is petty enough to quibble over a mere 24 hours when one has reached the grand old age where candles are considered a fire hazard? Bob himself took a brief respite from his daily tai chi routine (during which his loyal dog stares at him with puzzled expressions, but that’s another story for another time) and his gym routine to honor us with his presence.
The staff at the Eagle’s Nest, displaying the sort of quiet heroism that deserves a medal (or at least some free stuff), presented Bob with a small stack of birthday pancakes, tastefully adorned with “Happy Birthday” spelled out in what one can only assume was industrial-grade syrup. The plate arrived with theatrical flair, prompting the twelve assembled men—plus many bemused diners from neighboring tables—to launch into a rendition of “Happy Birthday” so loud and enthusiastic it very nearly qualified as structural damage to the rafters. Bob closed his eyes, made a wish, and blew out the candles effortlessly.
It was, all things considered, a splendid morning of fellowship. The men shared vital updates on Unit 44 affairs and pondered events both near and far.
Many happy returns, Bob, and may all your wishes come true!