Sons in Retirement (SIR) Branch 53  Oakmont, Santa Rosa
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Sons In Retirement (SIR) is a non-profit public benefit corporation (1959) for retired men. SIR assists men in renewing old friendships and making new friends through SIR activities.   We have more than 20,000 members in 150 Branches throughout northern California from Bakersfield to the Oregon border and Lake Tahoe to the Pacific Ocean. 

The Robert L. Ripley Branch 53, located in the Oakmont retirement community, was organized October 7, 1974 and held its first regular meeting January 7, 1975.  The name of the Branch was chosen in honor of Robert L. Ripley who was famous for his “Believe It Or Not” illustrated newspaper column.  The column appeared for many years in many major circulation dailies. He and his family were Santa Rosa, CA residents.

Membership is open to men retired from full-time occupation, regardless of age, race, color or religion. Member volunteers staff, administer and govern all Branch activities.
We don't raise funds or sell anything, we don't advocate a religious or political point of view and we don't support outside causes or interests. We are here for enjoyment and 
camaraderie. The only requirements to join SIR are that a man be retired, or semi-retired, be able to attend the monthly luncheons, and be sponsored by an active member.

Branch 53 has monthly luncheon meetings (a $23 charge) usually on the 4th Wednesday where members renew old friendships and establish new ones. Speakers are invited to speak on topical subjects of general interest. There are summer and winter luncheons where wives, partners and guests are invited.


Member activities are supported and governed by volunteers.  Of special interest are Branch activities like golf, bowling, computers, RV’s, investing, genealogy and many other activities of interest to members.  SIR Branch 53 is made up almost exclusively of men residing in Oakmont, an adult retirement community, that hosts a large number of similar activities.  Only those activities that pertain exclusively to our members are listed on this website. 

An extensive travel program is available to all members and their guests. Travel events vary from one day local excursions to trips of several weeks duration to destinations throughout the world. It is great fun to travel with people you know.


Our founders chose the Rooster as the official SIR logo to represent the freedom he displays around the barnyard. Of all earthly creatures, none express independence and dignity with more sureness and aplomb than the rooster. We have paid our dues to the business world and now is the time for us to strut and crow a little.