A Century of History and Baseball: Art Shallock, the Living Legend of Cogir de Napa Road

22 May 2024

This spring, a star shines particularly bright within the Cogir de Napa Road community. Arthur “Art” Shallock, an iconic figure, celebrates his hundredth birthday. But this man is not just a centenarian; he also embodies an important part of American baseball history.

Born and raised in Mill Valley, California, Art Shallock began his baseball career in the 1940s, where he quickly proved to be an exceptional pitcher at Tamalpais High School. His feats caught the attention of the San Francisco Seals of the Pacific Coast League, but unfortunately, his modest height of 5’9″ and lightweight of 160 pounds hindered his recruitment.

However, Art Shallock’s fate took a major turn when World War II broke out. Barely two weeks after graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy. For three years, he served as a radio operator on the USS Coral Sea, an aircraft carrier engaged in the tumultuous waters of the Pacific. His bravery and dedication were tested when he survived the tragic attack that sank the USS Liscome Bay, costing the lives of 644 men.

After the war, Art resumed his dream of playing professional baseball. His undeniable talent caught the attention of recruiters from the New York Yankees, who quickly signed him in 1951. That year, he had the opportunity to share the locker room with legends such as Yogi Berra and even won a World Series with the Yankees. Throughout his career, Art also played for the Baltimore Orioles before retiring from professional baseball.

Today, Art Shallock is not only the elder statesman of Cogir de Napa Road, but he is also the oldest living Major League Baseball player in the United States. His longevity and captivating story make him a true living legend, a source of inspiration for his fellow residents, and a gateway to the glorious past of American baseball.

But beyond his athletic achievements, it is his enduring relationship with his wife Dona, which has lasted for over 75 years, that speaks to the strength and resilience of Art Shallock. His story is a poignant reminder of the value of courage, determination, and love in building a rich and meaningful life.

As we celebrate Art Shallock’s hundredth birthday, we pay tribute to a man who left his mark on and off the baseball field. His presence among us at Cogir de Napa Road is a true blessing, and we wish him many more years of happiness, health, and memories to share. Happy birthday, Art!

About Cogir Real Estate

Incorporated in 1995, Cogir Real Estate employs close to 16,000 people who are passionate about real estate. With our constant desire to give purpose to real estate, we strive to maintain a human focus, to create and to excel in our quest to design living environments that are pleasant, functional and a reflection of their occupants. Our team manages over 420 properties throughout Canada and the United States. We oversee 6 million square feet of commercial property and 60,000 housing units, including more than 220 privately owned seniors’ residences. The Cogir Foundation supports projects and causes involving four major domains, namely youth, seniors, cultural diversity and the environment.