Historical Committee
Historical Committee
Farewell, Dear Friend... It is with great sadness to report that our dear Barbara left us peacefully on July 22, 2025, at My Michigan Hospital in Alpena, MI. Barb Steele and the CCR Museum go hand-in-hand. Barb always had a vision for a CCR Museum, and 5 years ago, that vision became a reality. Barb led the cause, along with Earl Sowers and a handful of Ranch members, and the Historical Committee was formed. Barb had collected a room-full( plus) of history in her home— some artifacts, photos, maps, and much more information, which she generously shared and eventually turned over to be stored in the Ranch House. Soon, many other CCR members caught on to the idea of a museum, and funds began to come in. Barb was always in the midst of any planning discussions, fundraising, and display events. Unfortunately, in September 2023, Barb had an accident requiring back surgery, which took her away from her beloved CCR and eventually to Medi-Lodge in Hillman. However, she was kept informed of any progress made by way of phone calls, videos, photos, word of mouth, and always with Committee Minutes. Barb was actively involved in many areas at CCR over the years— Ladies Auxiliary, updating the Ranch phone list, Barb’ s Blurbs e-mail column, and in the Atlanta Tribune, welcoming new members and supporting CCR events— just to name a few. Barb came to CCR as an infant with her parents, John and Peg Steele. CCR was“ Home” to Barb, and she will be greatly missed, especially by those of us looking for her guidance using her historical filing systems and because she knew the history so well. We believe Barb will be looking over our shoulder as we continue with her vision of a CCR Historical Museum, and her spirit will be at the Grand Opening event. Barb was born a member in 1938, suggesting at the time of her death, she was the longest living member of CCR.
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THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE WILL BE AT THE CCR ARTS & CRAFTS AUG. 31, 2925— Come buy your Elk Viewing Ride and Gourmet Dinner ticket $ 20( value is $ 560) that will take 4 people to a lively evening event at Thunder Bay Resort. We’ d like to chat with about the Ranch history and the museum status and plans.
DONOR TREE PROGRAM— Thank you once again for your support. If you haven’ t donated toward a leaf, there is still an opportunity to help fill the last section which will be added and eventually, the leaf engraving program will be closed.
REMINDER FOR HISTORICAL MATERIAL— We continue to encourage members to search for old photos that reflect how the Ranch used to look. If you are willing to share with us, you don’ t have to lose your treasures, we can copy and return the photo or artifacts can be“ on loan”. Please contact Perry Cooper 247-563- 6122, perryfcooper @ gmail. com or Jo-Carole Zechel 989-785-3355, jczechel @ gmail. com to discuss your photo or artifact or story from the past.
CCR Museum booth won 1st Place blue ribbon for booth decor reflecting fair theme.
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Museum progress slow; hoping before snow flies.