In Brainerd, Minnesota, retirement hasn’t slowed John Stram down—it’s given him a new purpose.

At 80 years old, the former auto repair shop owner spends his days much the same way he did for decades: surrounded by tools, diagnosing mechanical problems, and bringing broken machines back to life. The difference now is who benefits from his work. Instead of fixing cars, John refurbishes motorized wheelchairs for veterans who cannot afford to repair or replace them.

Working out of his own personal workshop, John accepts donated mobility devices that are no longer functional. Many arrive with dead batteries, faulty wiring, or worn-out mechanical parts. Using the same technical skills he honed over a lifetime as a mechanic, he carefully troubleshoots electrical systems, replaces components, and restores each wheelchair to safe, reliable condition.

The mission began when John became aware of how difficult it can be for veterans to obtain essential mobility equipment. New motorized wheelchairs often cost thousands of dollars, and insurance coverage can be delayed, denied, or incomplete. For individuals who rely on these devices to move around their homes and communities, even a short gap in access can mean a loss of independence.

John charges nothing for his labor.

“I can fix it, so why wouldn’t I?” he has said, explaining that the work feels like a natural extension of both his profession and his respect for those who served.

Each restored wheelchair represents more than a repaired machine—it represents freedom. Veterans who receive them can once again leave their homes, run errands, or simply move independently without relying on others. For John, seeing that immediate impact is the greatest reward.

While many people envision retirement as a time of rest, John prefers grease-stained hands and problem-solving. His workshop has become a quiet lifeline for veterans in need and a powerful example of how practical skills, when paired with generosity, can transform lives.

In Brainerd, John Stram is more than a retired mechanic. He is a reminder that service does not end with age—and that one person’s dedication can restore dignity, mobility, and hope to many.