100-Year-Old Toymaker Keeps Santa Jealous with Handmade Crafts

At 100, Harold Yoak is still turning wood and plastic into toys in his Garden Grove garage, a scene that would make Santa jealous. His workshop, tucked behind a faded garage door, is filled with wooden blocks, painted figures, and the scent of fresh glue.

Harold Yoak was born in 1925 and has lived in Garden Grove for most of his life. He spent 41 years as a high school biology teacher before retiring.

Yoak began handcrafting toys and figures shortly after retiring. He says he has been making dozens of toys every year for over 40 years. His first projects were simple wooden animals and plastic cars.

The toymaking tradition began with his brother, who lived in Mexico. The brother dressed up as Santa Claus for orphanages and women’s retreats. He lived there for 17 years.

Yoak recalls, “He lived there for 17 years and then for 17 years, I made two or three hundred toys to give to the Mexican kids when he went out to give their Christmas dinners,” said Roak. “So, probably 35, 40 years I’ve been making 100, 200 toys for Mexico for the kids.”

At 100, Yoak still opens his garage during the Christmas season to display toys and knick‑knacks for those who want a special gift. He has never slowed down.

His garage has become a makeshift workshop, stocked with saws, paints, and a workbench that bears the marks of decades. Yoak assembles each toy by hand, carefully sanding and finishing every piece. He estimates producing around 150 toys a year, a testament to his steady pace.

The toys range from classic wooden trains to miniature figurines, each reflecting Yoak’s attention to detail. He keeps a ledger of every batch, noting materials and hours spent.

During the holiday season, Yoak opens his garage to the public, inviting families to browse his creations. He offers a personalized experience, allowing children to choose their favorite toy.

Visitors often remark on the warmth of the setting, where the scent of glue mingles with holiday music. The display has become a local tradition for many Garden Grove residents.

After being advertised, Yoak sold more in one weekend than he has in the last four or five years. The increased exposure has brought new customers to his workshop.

The sales spike also highlighted the demand for handmade toys in an era dominated by mass production. Yoak is grateful for the renewed interest in his craft.

“I can’t believe he does that still, you know, makes these things with his hands. It’s so creative and artistic,” said a Garden Grove neighbor. The neighbor noted how Yoak’s work brings a sense of wonder to the neighborhood.

Neighbors remark that his handmade toys bring a sense of wonder to the community. They often leave small tokens of appreciation in his garage.

“This has kept me out of trouble,” said Yoak jokingly. He credits his craft with keeping him busy.

Photojournalist Mark Mehlinger reports for the NBC4 News at 4 p.m. on Dec. 19, 2025. He captured Yoak’s daily routine in the garage, documenting the meticulous process.

The story was published two hours ago and updated two hours ago by NBC Universal, Inc. It highlights Yoak’s dedication to his craft.

Yoak’s legacy extends beyond toys; it serves as an inspiration for artisans and seniors alike. His story reminds us that passion can thrive at any age. The community celebrates his perseverance and creativity.

While Yoak plans to continue his work, he has considered mentoring young crafters who visit his garage. He hopes to pass on techniques and stories to the next generation.

The local impact is evident in the increased foot traffic during the holidays and the positive feedback from families. Yoak’s workshop has become a cultural landmark in Garden Grove.

Key Takeaways

• Harold Yoak, 100, continues to handcraft dozens of toys each year.
• He began giving toys to Mexican children after his brother’s Santa work.
• A recent advertisement sparked a weekend sales spike exceeding past years.

The story highlights how a centenarian’s passion can inspire a community and revive a traditional craft. Yoak’s legacy shows that age is no barrier to creativity.