John Komoroske — Cycling, Golfing, and Living Well at Goodwin House Seminary Road
For John Komoroske, staying active is more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life. A longtime Alexandria resident and devoted advocate for community engagement, John has spent decades combining a fulfilling professional career with a vibrant, health-focused lifestyle. Now, he’s preparing to bring that same energy to Goodwin House Seminary Road (GHSR), a Life Plan Community designed for residents who want to live with curiosity and purpose.
Born in Panama and raised in Alexandria, John developed a lifelong appreciation for community and connection early on. After earning his JD and MPA, he worked in government and financial regulation while staying deeply involved in Alexandria’s schools and city planning. “I served on the Alexandria Planning Commission for 25 years, the last five as chairman,” he recalls. Even in retirement, John hasn’t slowed down. He’s maintained an active lifestyle centered on cycling and golf, often enjoying both five days a week.
For John, staying active is as much about social connection as physical fitness. He bikes over 30 miles, five days a week, with a group of friends who push each other, explore interesting routes and share coffee afterward. “You feel so great during and after a hard ride that you don’t want to miss one,” he says. Golf provides another outlet, offering both exercise and camaraderie.
Mindfulness plays a key role as well. John has practiced Transcendental Meditation twice daily for nearly 50 years, viewing it as a stress-relief tool that enhances focus and enjoyment of life. “Once you reduce your stress, a lot of the subtle things you couldn’t see before become visible, which is fascinating, enjoyable and often transcendent,” he explains.
Choosing a senior living community was a clear decision for John. With decades of involvement on the Goodwin Living Foundation Board and personal experience watching both his parents and in-laws thrive in other Goodwin House communities, he knew he wanted a home that combined quality, stability and a strong sense of purpose. “After seeing up close how well Goodwin Living communities are run, and realizing the importance of their being nonprofit, my wife and I agreed it was the right place for us,” he says.
John envisions a vibrant life at GHSR: starting a cycling group, staying active with running friends, playing golf and even creating a joke-telling club. “The ease of not maintaining a house, meeting new, interesting friends and staying physically active in my hometown — all of that draws me to the place,” he says.
His message for anyone looking to age actively is simple but powerful: “Everything about you is ‘Use It or Lose It,’ from your thinking to your strength, balance, stamina and overall health. Find activities you inherently enjoy and do them with friends you enjoy being with. You’ll be much more likely to take part and reap the benefits of an active lifestyle.”
With his energy, commitment to health and deep roots in the community, John brings a spirit that reflects the vibrant future of Goodwin House Seminary Road.