I got the "make stuff" gene from my grandfather. He was the epitome of handy--he was as talented with woodworking as he was with electronics. Had he not passed away before bare-bones computers became commercially available, he would absolutely have built his own computer from the ground up. And he sewed his own shirts, and baked his own bread, and I'm pretty sure he even made a pair of shoes once.
I'm the same way. I just like to make stuff. It's so satisfying to feel independent and competent. I feel like keeping my handy-skills intact is a good way to stay sharp and bright throughout my life.