Finding Love at the Huntington Beach Family YMCA

Walt and Patti’s story began in the most unexpected of places—at the Huntington Beach Family YMCA. Neither of them had anticipated that the Y would be where they found their second chance at love, but life can be surprising in that way.

It all started a little over a year ago, when Patti first noticed Walt in the Silver Sneakers class at the Huntington Beach Family YMCA. He wasn’t hard to spot—he was the one who, after every class, would stay behind to help stack the chairs.

One day, after a Silver Sneakers class, Patti had the courage to catch up with Walt outside the gym. She had heard bits and pieces of his story—he’d lost his wife of 57 years and had been living alone. Patti, who had recently joined the same church Walt attended, felt compelled to reach out. They talked for a few minutes outside the Y’s front door. Patti asked how he was coping with living alone, and they shared a vulnerable moment of connection. However, Walt left without asking for her phone number, and Patti wondered if he was interested at all.

“I didn’t want to make her feel pressured,” Walt said. “I figured if she liked me, she’d give me her number. I wasn’t sure if I should ask yet.”

A week later, Patti was sitting on a bench waiting for the next class to start when Walt walked up to her and asked her to lunch. She said yes and the rest is history.

From that day on, they were inseparable. They both loved the YMCA, not just for the exercise, but for the sense of community it provided. It wasn’t just the workouts; it was the people—the instructors, the members, the friends they’d made.

“I didn’t know anyone when I came back to the Y after losing my wife,” Walt said. “But the people here were so friendly and welcoming. I always joke with them, and they make me feel right at home.”

Patti couldn’t agree more. For her, the Y had always been her happy place.

“It’s a place where everyone knows your name, and they truly care about you. It’s a place where you can go to feel good about yourself, and not just because of the exercise but because of the people,” said Patti.

Walt and Patti still attend Silver Sneakers and Active Older Adult classes, sometimes together, sometimes on different schedules. Patti also enjoys Zumba Gold and Chair Yoga, while Walt participates in Total Fit.

Their favorite memories are not just the trips they’ve taken—Tahiti, Tahoe, and the upcoming Turtle Island getaway—but the little moments spent at the Y: laughing in class, chatting with new friends, and enjoying the camaraderie that comes with shared goals.

Their story is a testament to the power of community, and how the most unexpected encounters can lead to something beautiful. And as Walt and Patti continue to find joy in their shared fitness journey, they both agree on one thing: the YMCA will always hold a special place in their hearts— for keeping them fit and bringing them together.