After exploring retirement communities across the state, they found their new home at Valley View Village. “The campus caught our eye right away,” Marjorie said. “It was exactly what we were looking for.”

There were only eight people in the Penn State master’s level class where Marjorie and David Petkosh met. “We were in a small seminar and everyone had to talk, so we had the opportunity to engage academically first,” David remembers. The couple got married and went to full careers in education. David, who had already taught for 17 years as a high school English teacher, went on to get his PhD in curriculum and instruction and teach in colleges in both English and education. Marjorie worked as a reading specialist and went on to a post-master’s supervisory certification so she could assist teachers with the process and pedagogy of reading and writing through all subject areas. 

After 26+ years of living and working in Lancaster County, the couple decided to retire in a location that was close to family and outdoor beauty. 

Here are five reasons the Petkoshes made their home at Valley View:

Residential living neighborhood. “We were looking for a cottage-style community where we could make connections with other people. Valley View had exactly what we were looking for,” Marjorie said. 

Best of both worlds location. David has a large garden that he plants with seedlings grown under his own “grow lights.” This past summer, he gave away produce—cucumbers and tomatoes—and jars of homemade bread and butter pickles to his neighbors. “The location is such a unique thing about this place,” he said. “It’s not far from farmers markets and greenhouses, and just a short drive to beautiful state parks. You can go anytime you want. And it’s just minutes from State College.” 

Connected community. David and Marjorie have spent a lifetime in public service and quickly found opportunities to serve in the Village Resident Council and Activities & Programs Committee where they help plan events, volunteering opportunities, meals, and meetups with other residents. “We have an incredible Village that uses its gifts, talents, and skills for the betterment of the entire community. Retirement doesn’t mean just parking ourselves—it’s active, diverse, and connected. It’s a powerful thing to watch people come together for common goals.” 

Authentic friendships. David and Marjorie were struck by the quick, genuine warmth of their neighborhood when they moved in. “We are so struck by the sincerity of friendships here,” Marjorie shared. “We feel so at home here, and so safe.”

Everything you need, for life. “Valley View has all levels of care on one campus,” Marjorie said, referring to Valley View’s life plan campus that includes care levels from rehab to memory care to skilled nursing. “It’s a place you need to investigate. We were destined to land here, and we couldn’t be happier,” David added.

This article is part of our 2024 Spring & Summer Newsletter. Find other articles or view the online newsletter here.