05/17/2026
Today's of the Friendship Haven Times features the family and story of our friends Donna and Bob Pearson.
The Pearson family’s journey with Friendship Haven spans more than two decades and reflects a thoughtful decision to plan ahead. “When our parents moved twenty years ago, they weren’t quite ready,” Tracy Walk shared. “But they knew they needed to take advantage of the town house opening. They never looked back.”
Donna and Bob began their time at Friendship Haven in independent living and, as their needs changed, transitioned through River Ridge and eventually to Simpson Health Center, specifically Arbor Lane. Their experience reflects the strength of the full continuum of care, allowing residents to remain in a familiar community as life evolves.
Arbor Lane became especially meaningful. “They couldn’t say enough good things about the team in Arbor Lane,” Tracy said. Dr. Eric Pearson echoed that sentiment, sharing that the staff became like family to his parents, providing steady care and presence when he and his sister could not be there.
In honor of Donna’s memory, the family chose a heartfelt way to express their appreciation. Team members on Arbor Lane received apparel of their choice, featuring a design that includes a yarn heart and knitting needles. “Knitting became a lifelong passion. It was her big thing,” Tracy said. Donna learned to knit as a teenager and went on to create thousands of sweaters, hats, mittens, and baby items over the years. The design represents both her love of knitting and the care she extended to others.
When selecting the shirts, the family originally considered choosing a style themselves. “We asked the family what they wanted, and they all sent back different choices,” Tracy explained. “We decided to let the staff choose since they’re the ones wearing them.” Team members selected from short sleeve, long sleeve, or sweatshirt options, making the gift both personal and practical.
In addition to this tribute, memorials were directed to Friendship Haven in Donna’s memory. For the Pearson family, the gesture reflects deep appreciation for the people who cared for their parents through every stage of life. As Tracy put it simply, “It’s the best place for retirement. You can’t beat Friendship Haven.”
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