SHEBOYGAN FALLS, Wis. (SPECTRUM NEWS)-- A Wisconsin World War Two veteran has found a passion he's been holding onto for decades.
Woodworking is a passion and a hobby for Sylvester Regan, a 95-year-old marine veteran.
"I've been carrying a pocket knife since I was nine years old," Marine Veteran, Sylvester Regan said.
He has been creating works of art with his own two hands for decades now. His specialty is walking sticks.
"It gives me a chance to express the idea that I have in my mind," Regan said.
One of his most prized possessions his brag stick. It's a stick that shows off all of the branches of military that his family members served in.
"It starts with my sons. The oldest ones served in the air force," Regan said.
It’s sort of family tree that helps him get around; because Sylvester is legally blind.
"If I make a walking stick or cane I do that all by memory," Regan said.
He has mastered perfectly and precisely hand making works of art even though he has very little vision left.
"I can look at a piece of wood and see what’s in there, is it an animal a bird something else," Regan said.
He now uses his senses and muscle memory to create and carve. Never allowing his loss of sight to take away the thing he loves most.
"It’s something that I can do with my hands. It a creation that's something new that's not been done before," Regan said.
He says he only makes one of each walking stick, selling and giving away hundreds to friends and family. He's even made his own white cane which he plans to use one day if his vision completely goes.
Each piece reminds him of a special time in his life allowing him a trip down memory lane as he feels each work of art.
Sylvester is also a Purple Heart recipient. If you are interested in learning about more of what he does, click HERE for information videos on woodworking.