A Centenarian’s Garage Workshop: Crafting Timeless Wooden Toys in Garden Grove
Centenarian Crafts Toys in Garden Grove Garage
At 100 years old, Harold Yoak shows no signs of slowing down, producing dozens of handcrafted toys each year from his garage in Garden Grove. His work has become a seasonal highlight, reminiscent of Santa’s workshop.
A retired high school biology teacher with 41 years of experience, Yoak began crafting toys shortly after he left his teaching career. “This has kept me out of trouble,” he said, offering a light-hearted insight into his continued passion for the craft.
Yoak’s journey into toymaking began with his brother, who spent 17 years in Mexico dressing up as Santa Claus for orphanages and women’s retreats. “I made two or three hundred toys to give to the Mexican kids when he went out to give their Christmas dinners,” Yoak explained. “So, probably for 35, 40 years, I’ve been making 100, 200 toys for Mexico for the kids.”
Each holiday season, Yoak opens his garage to showcase his creations, allowing visitors to choose unique gifts. Since promoting his work, he reports experiencing a surge in sales, stating he has sold more in one weekend than in the last four or five years combined.
A neighbor from Garden Grove commented on Yoak’s impressive craftsmanship: “I can’t believe he does that still, you know, makes these things with his hands. It’s so creative and artistic.”
Yoak’s dedication not only provides joy to the children he aims to help but also serves as a testament to his enduring spirit and creativity at an impressive age.
