At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, our employees are an important part of what makes our community special. Their dedication, experience, and the relationships they build with residents help create a welcoming environment where people feel at home.

This year, we are proud to celebrate John McCurdy, Maintenance Electrician in our Plant Engineering Department, as he marks an incredible 45 years of service at The Gardens.

Throughout his career, John has become a familiar and trusted face in the community. While his work involves maintaining and repairing essential systems, he believes that what makes his job truly rewarding goes beyond the technical side of his responsibilities.

“The challenges are what make my job interesting and exciting. I enjoy meeting a variety of people. It’s not just about repairing something; it’s about greeting residents, getting to know them, and building a relationship because they put a lot of confidence in us. I like talking with people and hearing their interesting stories.”

Over the years, those everyday interactions have helped him develop meaningful connections with residents. Whether responding to a maintenance request or simply stopping to have a conversation, he values the opportunity to get to know the people who call The Gardens home.

When asked what has kept him at The Gardens for more than four decades, his answer reflects the sense of comfort and belonging he has found within the community.

“I’ve stayed because I feel comfortable here, and the residents feel comfortable with me. Working here has made life better for me. It’s a great opportunity with good benefits and good people to work with.”

One particular experience left a lasting impression on him and changed the way he approaches relationships with residents.

While attending a memorial for a resident who had passed away, he learned that she had grown up in his hometown and that his father had even been in her class. He realized they had shared a personal connection he never had the opportunity to discover while she was alive.

That experience inspired him to make a greater effort to learn about the people he meets.

“Since then, I always read the bios of new residents and try to get to know them.”

For John, taking the time to learn someone’s story has become just as meaningful as the work he performs each day. His approach reflects the personal connections that make The Gardens more than just a workplace.

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we recognize not only his 45 years of service but also the countless interactions, conversations, and relationships that have shaped his journey.

Congratulations, John, on 45 years at Mt. San Antonio Gardens! Thank you for your dedication, craftsmanship, and genuine care for our residents and community. Your commitment to your work and the people around you has made a lasting impact on The Gardens.