Bob MacQuarrie, a lively nonagenarian who has called Los Gatos home for over six decades, has lived a long—and fulfilling—life. Ever since immigrating from Canada in 1957, MacQuarrie has left a mark on our small town, from contributing to the early development of computer storage technology to pursuing his creative passions. But beyond his professional and personal achievements, MacQuarrie is a living example of the longevity scientists say you’ll find in so-called “blue zones” around the world.
Blue zones are regions where people live longer and healthier lives than average. According to a study conducted by County Health Rankings in 2023, Santa Clara County boasted an average life expectancy of 84.7 years—that’s 3.7 years more than California’s average and 6.2 years more than the national average. With these remarkable numbers, it’s no wonder the same study rated our county the third healthiest in California.
And how does Los Gatos compare? According to Census Reporter, 20% of Los Gatos’ population is aged 65 and older, with 7% at least 80. That’s notably higher—by 5% and 4.4%, respectively—than statewide figures, suggesting Los Gatos is a thriving, health-oriented haven for older adults.
Bob MacQuarrie once worked on a disc drive that was around five feet tall and had perhaps 10 discs of about 27-inches in length
But what makes it so special for citizens like 91-year-old Bob MacQuarrie? A unique blend of walkable streets, strong community engagement, balanced cuisine, a slower pace of life and family-focused living.
“I’ve always been very active,” MacQuarrie told the Los Gatan. “I was a hobbyist. So, whenever I had spare time, I was busy with a hobby.”
While many Los Gatos citizens prefer to get their exercise in hiking the creek or strolling through downtown, one of MacQuarrie’s favorite activities was a little different. “I had an airplane—a Ryan Navion, with sliding canopy and retractable gear,” he said. “I always enjoyed flying that.”
His fascination with technology and large machinery was fostered by his time at IBM. As an engineer, he was involved in the early development of computer storage technology.
“I once worked on a disc drive that was enormous,” he said. “It was probably five feet high, with 10 discs that were 27 inches in diameter, if I recall right. The first had five megabytes, and the second had 10 megabytes. Now you’ve got gigabytes in your pocket, in your iPhone. It’s a staggering change over time.”
As a retiree, MacQuarrie’s preferred activity has changed to reflect a slower lifestyle. He’s turned his attention to woodworking, a hobby that started by making toys for his children. “One thing got to another,” he explained, noting he began shaping more complex, segmented pieces.
“I always like the precision of it,” MacQuarrie said. “The end result has to be right. If it isn’t, it goes in the garbage, and I start again.”
Joining the Santa Clara Valley Carvers Club, in Los Gatos, allowed MacQuarrie to become acquainted with fellow carvers. He says they’ve pushed him to continue improving his craft.
“You get to see what a lot of people are doing, and you try new things,” MacQuarrie said. “There was one man there that did chip carving, which I’d never heard of.”
His presence at the club was not just about perfecting his own skills, but also about fostering a sense of community among fellow artisans.
“What I really enjoyed was the people. You get to see what a lot of people are doing, and you try new things,” he said. “Whether it’s painting, or whatever, you’ve got to have something like that (that) occupies your time, that you really enjoy.”
He’s gifted his perfected wood pieces to family and friends. In fact, they’ve found their way into homes all over the world.
MacQuarrie’s passion for productive hobbies echoes a key principle of the “blue zone” philosophy: staying involved. By maintaining a sense of purpose and accomplishment —through hobbies, clubs and social interactions—longevity becomes more than just a measure of time. From woodworking and book clubs to art classes and volunteer groups, Los Gatos is a hotspot of organizations that cater to older adults.
But for MacQuarrie, maintaining a sharp mind and healthy body involves more than just staying active. His secret? A little bit of Glenlivet whiskey.
“Never a lot,” he said. “Just a little bit is good.”
While it may seem surprising, moderate alcohol consumption is actually a characteristic of blue zones, embodying the idea that true health and happiness come from embracing balance rather than strict abstinence. According to Blue Zones research, in four of the original blue zones, residents drink alcohol in moderation and on a regular basis—one to two glasses a day, enjoyed with friends over a meal. From wine-focused street festivals to a stellar selection of local brews and cocktails at our top restaurants, Los Gatos’ culinary scene embraces this philosophy with open arms.
Yet, for MacQuarrie and blue zones alike, the most important factor remains family. MacQuarrie and his wife raised two children in Los Gatos. Both of them still live in the area.
“I’ve had such a great experience having both my children living close by, and that makes a difference. I know other people here have daughters and sons close by, and they really appreciate it,” he said.
Having lived all over the world—including Canada, Berlin, the UK and Scotland—MacQuarrie knows he has found his true home in our corner of Silicon Valley. Currently, he lives in San Jose at The Watermark at Almaden senior living community.
“I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else,” he said. “Although you can have a hell of a time parking.”
