"Meet the Kimmel Family"

- By Christina Parker

Ryan and Casey Kimmel have built a life filled with family, community, and adventure right here in Ocean View. With their two young sons, Howard (3) and Grady (1), and their two dogs, Gus and Biscuit, the Kimmels embrace everything their neighborhood has to offer. ‘We love how close-knit this community is,’ Casey shares. ‘There’s always something happening, and we feel so lucky to raise our kids in such a friendly, welcoming place. There’s something special about raising our kids in the same area where I grew up.’

Ryan agrees, adding, ‘Between the beach, the parks, and all the family-friendly events, Ocean View has everything we could ask for. There’s never a dull moment.’ Their days are filled with bike rides, spontaneous trips to the park, and enjoying the simple joys of coastal living.

How It Started
Ryan and Casey’s story began on a cold December night in 2015 at Chics Oyster Bar. Ryan made just enough of an impression to score a brunch date, and from there, the rest was history. They planted roots in East Ocean View in 2017, just a block away from Casey’s parents. For Casey, this was simply coming home—she’s lived in the neighborhood for most of her life. For Ryan, it was a new chapter after moving to the area in 2014.

Careers & Community Involvement
Ryan is an F-18 instructor pilot at NAS Oceana, balancing his time between the Navy Reserves, FedEx Express, and Boeing contractor work. While he travels often, he makes the most of his time at home. Casey, a graduate of Old Dominion University, started her career in commercial real estate and transitioned into commercial finance with Fulton Bank. She thrives on the ever-changing nature of her work and the connections she makes along the way.

Beyond their careers, both Ryan and Casey make it a point to give back to their community. Ryan mentors aspiring Naval Academy students through the Blue and Gold Officer program, and Casey volunteers with Junior Achievement of Hampton Roads.

Active Family Life
The Kimmel boys are full of energy. Howard has already completed two seasons of Tee Ball and is trying his hand (or foot) at soccer. Both he and Grady take gymnastics classes at Tidewater Gymnastics Academy, and when they’re not in structured activities, you can find them at the skatepark, on their bikes, or enjoying Ocean View’s many parks. Grady, still figuring things out, believes swimming skills are optional when it comes to water. His parents, however, strongly disagree.

Neighborhood & Community
The Kimmels love living in East Ocean View. Their neighbors are not just friendly—they're friends, always ready to lend a hand or share a fun weekend gathering. ‘We’re so lucky to have neighbors who feel like extended family,’ Casey says. ‘Whether it’s a quick chat on a walk or a full-on backyard barbeque, there’s always someone around to connect with.’

The family enjoys events at COVA Brewery, summer concerts at East Beach, and impromptu golf cart rides around the neighborhood. ‘One of my favorite things about Ocean View is how easy it is to get around and see friends. We park the cars on Friday and take the golf cart everywhere for the weekend—it makes life feel a little more relaxed and fun,’ Ryan shares.

They’re also active in shaping the community, attending city planning meetings, participating in their children’s sports teams, and picking up trash during their walks. ‘We love giving back in little ways,’ Casey says. ‘Even just keeping the neighborhood clean or supporting local businesses—it all adds up to making Ocean View a beautiful and great place to live.’

Travel & Adventure
With Ryan’s Navy career, the Kimmels have made connections across the country, turning travel into a chance to catch up with friends. They take annual trips to Northern California to visit Ryan’s family, and last year, they had the adventure of a lifetime in South Africa—attending a friend’s wedding and going on safari. They’re already dreaming of the day they can take their boys back for a family safari experience.

A Message to Their Neighbors
For the Kimmels, Ocean View is more than a neighborhood—it’s home. ‘Whether it's a spontaneous playdate, a walk with the dogs, or just bumping into friends at a local spot, we wouldn’t trade it for anything.’ Casey says.

So next time you see them out and about—whether at the park, a brewery, or just cruising in their golf cart—be sure to say hi. They’re always up for a friendly chat and a shared appreciation for the Ocean View way of life.