Striking the Right Chord
The quick, joyful strum of a banjo fills the air, joined by guitars, mandolins, and the steady hum of a bass. At the center of the music is Marty Kraus, whose passion for playing now inspires countless listeners.
A retired psychiatrist, Marty performs with the Naperville Riverwalk Pickers, an informal yet spirited group that delights crowds every Saturday at the Naperville Civic Plaza. “We joyfully jam American, Indian, Latino, and other global genres,” Marty said. “We never know exactly who will show up or what we’ll play, but it always works.” With more than 1,500 songs on their iPads, the Pickers keep their performances fun and spontaneous.
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The group also performs monthly at Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove, which Marty and his wife, Marcia, now call home, and where fellow residents eagerly look forward to their lively shows.
Planning for the Future
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After decades in Hyde Park, Oak Park, Hinsdale, and then 28 years in Naperville, Marty and Marcia decided it was time for a change when the upkeep of a house became more of a burden than a joy. “We’d had enough with shoveling and maintenance,” Marcia said.
With their daughters in Naperville and Forest Park, she began researching senior living options. “I’m a planner by nature,” Marcia said, reflecting on her second career as a financial planner. “I wanted us to be in a community where our future would be secure.”
The search led them to explore Life Plan Communities, which offer an active, independent lifestyle along with the reassurance of higher levels of care if ever needed. Oak Trace stood out as the right fit.
Composing a New Chapter
The couple found the perfect apartment at Oak Trace, which had been created by combining two one-bedroom models. “We walked in and said, ‘Wow,’” Marcia recalled. “The openness and brightness exceeded our expectations. But I also wanted a private office space, and Oak Trace made that happen. It’s perfect.”
In Perfect Harmony
Today, Marty stays busy with music, fitness classes, and swimming, while Marcia enjoys volunteer opportunities, including helping introduce and welcome new residents through the community newsletter.
Both agree the move was the right decision. “The residents are so friendly, and the staff is excellent,” Marcia shared. Their family also feels reassured knowing they have a secure plan in place for the future.
For Marty and Marcia, Oak Trace offers more than a home. It is a community filled with friendship, music, and peace of mind, the perfect harmony for this new chapter.
Oak Trace Senior Living
Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove, Illinois, is set on more than 40 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds featuring gardens, walking paths, ponds and abundant green space. As a Life Plan Community, formerly known as a CCRC, Oak Trace offers a full continuum of care: including independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Oak Trace is owned by Lifespace, a not-for-profit organization with nearly 50 years of experience in senior living. To learn more about Oak Trace, visit www.OakTraceSeniorLiving.com.
