Indianola, Iowa — This year in Indianola, Iowa, Santa Claus isn’t pulling a truck full of gifts. Instead, he’s bringing happiness and light to every home on his block by decorating them for the holidays.
John Reichart, 74, loves Christmas, but he loves something else even more: Joan, his wife of 53 years. They found out she had Alzheimer’s four years ago, and the Marine veteran has made it his goal to keep making memories for her ever since.
“If it wasn’t for my wife, I don’t know if I would’ve done it,” said Reichart. “But she asked for Christmas, so I gave it to her.” I would do anything to please her.
His project now has a lot of extra helpers setting up lights, ornaments, and other things. A steady line of fans are also coming to see the holiday cheer.
“I think the whole neighborhood feels very blessed to have him in this neighborhood,” a neighbor said.
“It’s moving,” said another person watching. “That’s what Christmas is all about.”
Reichart said that he doesn’t see himself ending the practice any time soon.
He said, “As long as she’s OK.” “And even if she would pass, I’m gonna do it in her memory as long as I can do it.”
Joan said she loved how her husband made the neighborhood feel more holiday-like.
Joan said, “I didn’t know what to think.” “But I’m glad he did it.” “I love him.”
His friends have set up a P.O. box to receive Christmas cards as a way to thank Reichart and honor Joan. Reichart will read the cards to his wife.
