Dan Kroffat, one of Cochrane’s most prolific senior citizens and a leader in the community, speaks on the importance of Seniors Week in Cochrane, and the importance of community involvement for older residents in town.
Kroffat said his story first started after getting involved with pro-wrestling in 1969. He had good career that even included creating the iconic ‘ladder match,’ which remains to be a staple in the wrestling entertainment.
“(In) 1985 was when the big money really started with WrestleMania, and that’s when I got out,” Kroffat explained. “My last show was in the Saddledome with 22,000 people, and that’s when I retired.”
A major turning point in his life was in 1984, after Kroffat was shot after being taken hostage in B.C. prison for seven hours. Although he acknowledges that it was a negative event, it played a pivotal role in creating a positive outcome for his life.
“I had to make a u-turn in life and move in a new direction, and it became more positive,” Kroffat said. “My business thrived, and eventually moving back to Alberta was the best thing I could have done.”
Just two weeks away from turning 79-years-old, Kroffat said there is a lot of conversation regarding seniors suffering from loneliness and depression. He outlines Seniors Week shines a light on this topic, which has become more prevalent following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking from previous experience, he outlines that getting involved in the community can help combat those feelings.
“If you're caught up with depression and loneliness, and you're dealing with things like that, engagement will help you move past that,” Kroffat said.
Through his work, he was inducted to the Order of Cochrane earlier this year. He outlined that it was a very special award to receive at his age for all the work he’s done in the community, and shows the value of seniors in Cochrane.
“Even though we may not have the physical capability, nor are we engaging in a full-time job any longer, we do have resources that are valuable to the young generation,” Kroffat said.
At his age, Kroffat acknowledges that his health is becoming more of a priority. He said he is starting to wean away from volunteering at his current capacity, adding that he is trying to prioritize the time he has left.
“I would tell seniors planning who are planning to step aside, to not be concerned about it,” Kroffat said. “Find other things to do. I might take up gardening now, something that has nothing to do with volunteerism, but it's still a hobby.”
He hopes future generations will remember his contributions, but more than anything, he only wants to be regarded as a community-minded Cochranite with a positive attitude.
“I’m grateful for the time that I had here,” Kroffat said. “If people would worry less and indulge in things that make them feel good and help others, those are the greatest rewards you can ever have.
“I would like it to be remembered as someone who loved living here and cared about the differences we can make. I hope I have made a contribution that is memorable and worthwhile.”
