A Move to Trillium Woods “Well Worth the Wait”
When Lou Michelich stepped across the threshold of his new home at Trillium Woods this October, it wasn’t just the beginning of a new chapter. It was the culmination of years of anticipation, personal resilience, and the steady conviction that this was exactly where he wanted to be.
Michelich had reserved his spacious home in the community’s newly completed expansion nearly two years before he moved in. When it officially opened this fall, the expansion introduced thoughtfully designed floor plans and a new bistro dining venue that complements the community’s main dining room, Minnehaha Pub, and café. With the arrival of new neighbors, the project has brought a renewed sense of energy to an already vibrant campus — and a few homes are still available for those interested in the inviting Trillium Woods lifestyle.
During construction, Michelich was regularly invited to socials and events at the top-rated senior living Life Plan community in Plymouth, Minn., giving him the chance to meet people, form friendships, and begin imagining his life there long before moving day. “It was as though I was already a resident,” he said. “It was a wonderful way to get to know people.”
A Life of Service, Family, and Minnesota Roots
Michelich’s life has always been deeply connected to Minnesota. A University of Minnesota School of Dentistry graduate, he spent 44 years practicing dentistry after serving in the Air Force at Vandenberg Air Force Base during the Vietnam conflict. He and his wife, Rosalie, whom he married in 1966, raised three children in the state, and were active in their church community for decades. Their 54-year marriage remained the center of his life until her passing in 2019.
Peace of Mind
One of the most reassuring aspects of choosing Trillium Woods for Michelich was the continuum of care. After researching other communities in the area over the years, he felt that none matched its comprehensive support, from vibrant, independent living to higher levels of assistance should health needs change. Knowing that everything he might need in the future is already built into the community brings him lasting peace of mind. “It was clear to me that Trillium offered the most reasonable and complete plan,” he said. “It’s comforting to know I’m in a place where I’ll be taken care of, no matter what comes next.”
A Move Made Easy
After waiting so long for his new home to be completed, Michelich wanted the moving process to be smooth and efficient, and Trillium Woods’ team made the experience easy. From design selections to move-in day logistics, Michelich was supported by staff he now describes as exceptional. “You’d be hard-pressed to find better people anywhere,” he said. “They know everything that’s going on, and they know how to get answers. They made the process enjoyable.”
New Friends, Familiar Comforts
One of Michelich’s early concerns was adjusting to life as a single person after decades of being part of a couple, but he found that Trillium Woods’ welcoming culture quickly eased that transition. “Everyone here is new to everyone else,” he said. “It’s very easy to walk into various settings, introduce yourself, and sit down with people.”
In the dining room, he’s discovered a warm, European-style friendliness—residents joining one another at tables, conversations flowing easily, and good company enhancing good meals. “I’ve never had a bad meal or bad service,” he said. “And I’m always welcome to join someone, just as others are welcome to join me. They’ve also recently implemented a community table gathering that you can sign up for on Tuesday and Friday evenings for dinner in the dining room. It’s kept to around seven or eight people so you can get to know one another as you break bread together.”
Staying Active, Staying Connected
Although Michelich hasn’t yet had time to dive deeply into Trillium Woods’ programming, he has already attended introductory sessions for the fitness center and pool. With a lifetime of stretching and exercise routines behind him, he looks forward to using the equipment, working with staff, and continuing the PT-supported habits that have always kept him strong.
He’s also maintaining close ties with friends and colleagues he’s known for decades. “Even after 15 years of retirement, I’ve kept in touch with many colleagues,” he said. “And I still have friends in the community I see regularly. It’s important to me to keep those ties.”
A Place That Already Feels Right
After just one month, Michelich says the move to Trillium Woods has felt like the right decision at the right time. From welcoming neighbors and top-notch dining to the ease of meeting new friends, he’s embraced this next chapter with gratitude and optimism.
“I have no desire to live anywhere else,” he said. “Not even in winter. Minnesota is home. And everyone here has been wonderful.”
As he continues settling into his new residence, Michelich looks forward to fully enjoying the community he waited so long to join. “I already feel at home.”
The exciting new expansion is now open. Limited-time savings are available, and a few rare and desirable floorplans remain.
Right now, you can reserve ahead, save significantly, lock in 2025 rates, and plan your move for Spring 2026. With beautifully designed new residences and a campus full of opportunities to stay active, social, and connected, this is an ideal moment to take a closer look.
Now is the perfect time to discover Trillium Woods for yourself. Visit https://www.trilliumwoodslcs.com/contact/#/further/55 or call 763-744-9440 to schedule a personal tour, explore the community’s amenities, and see firsthand why so many residents describe the move as one of the best decisions they’ve made.
