Part Three of a Three Part Series: No Desire to Retire

You’re at a casual gathering, talking with new friends about anything and everything, when someone turns to you with a smile and asks, “So, when are you planning to retire?”

In Western Colorado, many adults 55 and older aren’t counting down the days to retirement. They’re leading organizations, building businesses, mentoring the next generation and serving their communities. 

In this third and final installment, these local professionals share why they’re still working, what keeps them motivated and why retirement isn’t part of the plan—at least not yet.

 “For us, it’s not work. It’s the other place we live.”

Doug Simons, President & CEO, Enstrom Candies

Doug Simons has helped nurture his family business since 1979. That’s when he and his wife Jamee became business partners, two years after they became marriage partners.

Together, they joined the company founded on Jamee’s grandfather Chet’s famous almond toffee recipe.

Nearly a century later, Enstrom Candies continues to grow and Simons still loves the work. 

“Jamee and I are such good partners,” said Simons. “She handles the retail and marketing dimensions, and I focus more on the manufacturing, building and business growth. We complement each other in so many ways.” 

While their sons are taking on more of the company’s management, Doug and Jamee remain involved.

“We still have plenty to do, but we have more freedom now,” said Simons.

He said it has been a privilege to work alongside Jamee’s grandparents and parents through the years.

“Our family is proud to carry the torch,” he said. “We love this community where it all began.” 

 “I’m on my third retirement… I feel I have more to contribute to people and my community.”

Debra Bailey, Nurse Practitioner at HopeWest & Adjunct Professor at Colorado Mesa University

Debra Bailey was raised on the philosophy that you take care of people until the work is complete.

That mindset explains why she has retired before, but never for long.

“I keep returning to work to try and make a difference,” said Bailey. 

Her years of experience in teaching and healthcare have allowed her to serve vulnerable populations in rural areas, including Western Colorado. She has helped patients and families navigate a complex health care system, individualize care and focus on comfort, affordability and access to advanced care.

While Bailey is stepping away from crisis work, she still wants to contribute in meaningful ways. 

“As my husband and I travel more, I will work less,” she said. “I also want to have a big part in the life of my family.”

For Bailey, that still leaves room for service.

“I’m dedicated to providing health care and education to individuals in a way that is therapeutic, authentic and effective,” she said. 

 “I’m using all sides of my brain—creative, analytical and service. I’m pushing hard to get important projects done now instead of later.”

Matthew Breman, Fruita Mayor & VP of Operations & Marketing at ProStar

Matthew Breman never gets bored. Between his roles as Fruita mayor, vice president of operations and marketing at ProStar and chair of the Fruita Housing Authority, “busy” doesn’t begin to describe his life.

“My work involves constant variety and I love it all. I never stop learning,” said Breman. 

Retirement isn’t on the immediate horizon.

“I have at least 10 more years in me before I’d consider retiring,” Breman said. “I might move away from corporate work in the future, but I’ll always love government service and community service.” 

No Desire to Retire, Part One: 

Why Grand Junction professionals are redefining retirement

Meet locals who are choosing purpose over retirement, finding joy, connection and meaning in the work they love every day. Read More » 

No Desire to Retire, Part Two: 

Why these Western Colorado professionals are skipping retirement, for now

From teaching college students to leading healthcare alliances, these local professionals explain why they are still working and what keeps them motivated every day. Read More »