An earlier project of which he is particularly proud is his “wooden quilt” headboard that won both a blue ribbon and the “best of show” award at the 2001 Los Angeles County Fair (see next page).
Quilts have been Stan’s inspiration for a number of colorful projects, which isn’t surprising since his wife Elaine, also 92, is a longtime member of the local Friendship Square Quilt Guild.
Stan and Elaine were born two weeks and two blocks apart in Huntington Park, California, in 1931—but they didn't meet until 18 years later. They married in 1953 right after Stan finished his hitch in the U.S. Air Force. The couple then headed for Whitworth College in Spokane, Washington, where Stan earned his degree in physical education—which is another clue to his long life and high energy: he really believes in staying in good shape. He can still fit quite comfortably into his Air Force uniform that he wore when he was 21.
His favorite form of exercise is playing tennis, so when he and Elaine moved to La Habra Heights in 1977, he was determined to build his own tennis court, which he completed in 1980.
The Quade family has enjoyed many hours playing tennis with friends. Stan and his son Eric have competed as a highly successful team in Super Senior National Father Son doubles.
Stan completely redesigned and built the new pavilion overlooking his tennis court just last year—when he was 91!
Perhaps Stan’s best-known work in the Heights is his intricately-carved podium that has been used at our city meetings and events for many years.
