Bang was not an ordinary man. At 71, he had already lived an extraordinary life as a software engineer, pioneering ideas in computer programming that shaped industries. But Bang believed that life was not a finite script—it was an ever-expanding story, driven by curiosity and passion.
Retirement came knocking, but Bang refused to let the world label him “retired.” Instead, he saw it as a chance to explore untouched horizons. First, he picked up architectural modeling with Blender. The idea of designing and building home additions fascinated him—not because he needed the money, but because the challenge whispered promises of growth. He devoted hours to intricate designs, teaching his mind to solve spatial puzzles, marveling at the convergence of art and engineering.
Purpose fueled Bang’s mornings. He still immersed himself in programming, sharpening his skills in Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Web APIs. He even set about designing and developing a personal electronic medical record (EMR) system to record medical information and track blood pressure and heart rate - this is a practical manifestation of his use of technology to meet life needs. Though work didn’t consume him the way it had in younger years, it became his anchor—a structure that gave meaning to his days. Yet Bang understood purpose wasn’t confined to work. Bang and his wife Rosie helped care for their 20-month-old granddaughter, Nicole. Little Nicole’s giggles and curious eyes brought a new layer of joy to their lives, keeping them energized and youthful.
His true delight came from movement. Diagnosed with diabetes post-pancreatic surgery, he might have slowed down, but he refused to stop. Each day found him in Hershey’s backyard, trimming hedges, planting roses, raking leaves. Yard work was his meditation—a rhythm that tethered his body and brain together.
Bang knew there was no secret recipe for longevity. Genetics had granted him a solid foundation, but it was consistency, curiosity, moderation, and his enduring sense of humor that carried him forward. As he looked out at the sunset from his porch, sipping chamomile tea after a day of creation, exploration, and connection, he smiled at the realization.
Life was not about counting years; it was about filling those years with purpose, wonder, and joy.