Parasailing at 90: Fort Myers Beach adventure for Navy veteran

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. - A 90-year-old Navy veteran is proving that age is just a number as he takes to the skies for a parasailing adventure, despite facing significant health challenges.

Surrounded by family, Sonny Lokken embarked on this thrilling journey with his doctor and granddaughter by his side on Fort Myers Beach.

At 90 years old, Lokken isn't showing any signs of slowing down. His family traveled from Minnesota to join him as he stepped back into the water for this remarkable experience.

"Oh, wonderful. This young lady keeps me running," said Lokken, expressing his joy.

The idea of parasailing started decades ago, thanks to his granddaughter.

"I was in Hawaii, and my granddaughter said, seen somebody parasailing… we should do that. I said, okay, let’s do it," Lokken said.

After trying it again at 80, Lokken returned to the air at 90, this time with his doctor, Dr. Amy Hilde-Philips, right beside him.

"He said, if you get me to 90, you’re going with me… and I said, name the place and the time, I’ll be there," said Dr. Hilde-Philips.

Dr. Hilde-Philips, who has cared for Lokken for 20 years, praised his unmatched spirit.

"That’s what makes him so special… just his zest for living," she said.

Up in the air, Lokken's granddaughter, Kaylee Pelkey, watched the moment come full circle.

"Oh my gosh. It was so fun. We talk about it and, like, get excited and look forward to it, and it was just so fun that it happened," said Pelkey. "He inspires me so much just to live life to the fullest and just embrace every day."

Reflecting on the experience, Lokken shared his disbelief and admiration.

"I can’t believe that you’d do this… but you’re so special I wouldn’t put anything past you," he said to his doctor.

Lokken's adventure on Fort Myers Beach is a testament to living life to the fullest, regardless of age.