Symphony Applewood

You could feel the love in the air as the Symphony of Applewood community came together to help Tony (100 years young) and Lee (90 years young) Tocco celebrate an unforgettable milestone—their 48th wedding anniversary.

With support and excitement, the staff planned a romantic outdoor lunch just for the two of them, where they enjoyed Lee’s favorite meal: lasagna. Every detail was chosen with love, from the food to the décor, where touches of purple—Lee’s favorite color—brought warmth and beauty to the setting. This wasn’t just a celebration; it was a community’s heartfelt tribute to a timeless love story.

In her own words, Lee shares their love story:

“I had been working at the Pontchartrain Hotel in downtown Detroit. I was an info clerk at the front desk, and one day my co‑worker started calling me to meet this man at Greenfield Village. Her daughter worked there and talked about this Tony Tocco, and ‘What a nice man he is!’ So, after three phone calls, I finally said yes. I drove to her home in Dearborn where several people were going out to dance and met Tony. We developed a lot of things we had in common, and after a year or so, we talked of marriage. On May 28, 1977, we were married at the Christ of Kings Church. It was just lovely. We have had some wonderful times and a lot of fun over the years. One of my favorite memories was riding on Tony’s motorcycle and dancing with him to Frank Sinatra.”

When asked what their secret was to such a long marriage where they are both still so in love with one another, they agreed that it is to always be sweet to each other—even in times when they didn’t agree.

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!

Zoltan has been a resident of Symphony Applewood for over a year.

A proud father of two, whom he describes as “handsome and beautiful,” Zoltan fondly recalls that some of his most treasured memories are of attending hockey and baseball games with his son.

“I really miss going to games with him,” Zoltan shared. “It would make me very happy to relive a game with my son.”

Thanks to the Symphony Applewood Dream Maker Task Force, that wish has come true. Zoltan was transported to Toledo, Ohio, where he enjoyed special festivities with his loved ones and created a new unforgettable memory alongside his son and daughter‑in‑law. The Mud Hens made it extra special by allowing him to go out on the field before the game started.

Despite the rain and chilly conditions, he said he had the best time, and it was something he will never forget.

Zoltan, known for his kind and caring nature, hopes to be remembered for the compassion he’s shared throughout his life. His story is a reminder that some of life’s greatest joys are found in the simplest moments, like cheering in the stands with the ones we love.

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!

“Bunky” Charles Stedman fondly recalls his time teaching and coaching children in Flat Rock, considering it his greatest achievement.

“Teaching children was my greatest accomplishment,” Bunky proudly shared. “I’ve always had a passion for learning and sharing that knowledge with kids.”

During a conversation with Laura, the Activities Director at Symphony Applewood, Bunky revealed one unfulfilled wish: to own a copy of the Chronological History of Detroit, a book he had long sought but never acquired.

Inspired by Symphony’s Dream Maker Program, Laura was determined to make Bunky’s dream a reality. After some diligent searching by the team, a new copy of the book was finally located. Thanks to the generosity of the center’s staff, they purchased the book for Bunky, fulfilling his long‑held wish.

“When I visit Bunky in his room,” Laura shares with a smile, “it fills me with pride to see him reading the book. When he’s not reading it, he displays it like a trophy. It was a simple dream, but it made a big impact on him.”

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!

Joe Flynn has called Symphony Applewood home for nearly a year now.

After unexpectedly losing his beloved wife of 24 years, Suzan, four years ago, life changed in ways he never imagined. But being here, surrounded by new friendships and compassionate care, has helped him begin to heal. Joe recently shared that he feels like he’s exactly where he’s meant to be.

A true movie buff, Joe lights up talking about his favorite film series—Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Jurassic Park. One of his most cherished memories with Suzan was their regular movie nights out—a tradition that brought them joy and connection.

Thanks to the Symphony Dream Maker Program, Joe had the chance to relive that special tradition. His dream? A classic movie date, just like the ones he and Suzan used to enjoy.

We made it happen with a trip to see the newest Jurassic World film. With a big bucket of popcorn, a giant slushie, and candy in hand, Joe had the best time. For him, it wasn’t just a movie—it was a beautiful reminder of love, comfort, and the power of remembering.

At Symphony, we don’t just care for our residents, we celebrate their stories, their passions, and their dreams.

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!

For Michele and Sarah, clinical leaders at Symphony Applewood, football is more than just a weekend pastime—it’s a cherished tradition.

Healthy banter about Friday night highlights is a regular occurrence. Yet, these discussions often circle back to someone special: Bunky, a beloved resident at Symphony Applewood who has made it his home.

“Bunky is a legend,” Sarah says with a smile. “Even though he was retired by the time I was in high school, everyone in Flat Rock knows him. His name is synonymous with our town’s football legacy.”

Bunky, once the Recreation Coordinator and long-time football coach for Flat Rock, holds a special place in the community’s heart. His presence at the annual football rivalry between Flat Rock and Airport is more than symbolic—it’s a testament to the deep roots he’s planted over the years.

This year, the Symphony Applewood team was determined to make the night even more memorable for him.

“My husband, Clif, is the Offensive Coordinator for Airport High School,” Heidi, Administrator at Symphony Applewood, explains. “Given Bunky’s history as a former Flat Rock coach, we knew this game would be special. So, we worked to ensure Bunky had sideline seats with his old team.”

On game night, Bunky proudly wore a Flat Rock sweatshirt donated by the Symphony Dream Maker Team. His face lit up as fans, players, and coaches greeted him warmly. It was clear that his legacy still resonated deeply within the community.

As the night unfolded, it became a celebration of both a present rivalry and a past filled with treasured memories.

In a heartfelt thank-you note to Heidi, Bunky reflected on the evening: “The highlight for me was after the game when the cheerleaders smiled at me, and the football team came over to fist-bump me and wish me well. It brought back so many memories. I even ran into someone I worked with back in 1977.”

For Bunky, it wasn’t just a football game—it was a chance to relive his glory days, surrounded by the community that still holds him dear. For the Symphony Applewood team, it was an opportunity to honor a man who has meant so much to so many.

Special thanks go to Chris Lukosavich, Principal of Airport High School, for granting permission to make this night possible; Derek Anderson, Head Football Coach of Airport, for arranging the amazing sideline seats; Andrew Brodie, Superintendent of Flat Rock, who used to work with Bunky, for his hospitality and delightful conversation throughout the game; and Flat Rock Head Coach Brandon “Buck” and his athletes for treating Bunky as a celebrity.

Thanks also to Clif Whitehouse, the staff at Symphony Applewood, and to the athletes, cheerleaders, spectators—everyone who helped make this night so special for Bunky.

In the end, the final score didn’t matter. With the way Bunky was treated, everyone was a winner!

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!

Take Diane out to the Ballgame

Diane, a beloved resident at Symphony Applewood, recently reminisced with the staff about her lifelong passion for sports. With a sparkle in her eye, she fondly recalled the excitement and camaraderie she felt watching games with her son in her more active days. Diane mentioned that one of her greatest wishes was to attend another Detroit Tigers game, with her son, Justin — an experience she cherishes deeply.

Moved by Diane’s heartfelt desire, the Symphony Dream Maker team sprang into action. Eager to make her wish come true, they generously purchased tickets for Diane and Justin to attend a Detroit Tigers game together. This special outing created new memories and rekindled her love for the sport she has always enjoyed.

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!!