Garden Grove veteran and beloved toymaker celebrates 101st birthday

A World War II veteran and longtime teacher in Garden Grove is celebrating a milestone birthday while continuing a tradition that has made him a local favorite.

Hal Yoak turned 101 this year and marked the occasion with a simple reflection on longevity: “Well number one, I’m still here.”

Beyond his years, Yoak is known in the community as a craftsman who spends his time making wooden toys in his garage. What began as a personal activity evolved into something more meaningful, as he built toys not to keep, but to sell or often give away to neighborhood children…

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