Living with Purpose, Giving with Heart
Published: December 1, 2025
At nearly 99 years old, Springhill resident Don Grumblatt is proof that age is only a number, though in his case, it is a remarkable one. He still swims regularly in the community pool, drives the 30-mile round trip to visit his significant other, and even stood on the pitcher’s mound to throw the first pitch at an Erie SeaWolves baseball game. His zest for life is matched only by his generosity.
“Coming to Springhill was such a good move for me,” Don says of the community he has called home since 2017. “I want to give back to the place that has given me so much.”
Honoring Service and Sacrifice
And give back he has. Don’s story is one of service, sacrifice, and generosity. A World War II veteran, who was also called up to serve in the Korean War, has sounded Taps at more than 2,000 military funerals, ensuring that his fellow service members are honored with dignity and respect.
His imprint can be found throughout the Springhill campus from the Aquatic Center Phase II project to the Outdoor Recreation Area, to the Reflection Garden dedicated to veterans. And his impact will continue far beyond his lifetime through a planned estate gift to the Springhill Benevolent Care Fund.
Investing in the Future
Don also created the Springhill Scholarship and Internship Endowment Fund. This fund supports associates pursuing higher education and provides students with valuable, firsthand experience in the field of senior living.
“I just want to help the kids out,” Don says humbly. At the 2025 Scholarship Awards,
one recipient embraced him in gratitude.
“I just want to help the kids out,” Don says with characteristic humility.
At the 2025 Scholarship Awards ceremony, that impact came to life. One recipient, overwhelmed with gratitude, thanked Don with a heartfelt hug. The moment confirmed what he already knew: “She’ll succeed in any field she pursues,” he said.
From honoring veterans to supporting the next generation of healthcare and senior living professionals, Don’s legacy is as enduring as the man himself. After all, if he can still throw a baseball from the pitcher’s mound at 99, why wouldn’t he keep finding new ways to pitch in for his community?