On the morning of March 17, our quiet retired morning turned nearly disastrous. I discovered the shop and barn were on fire. After what seemed like hours on the phone with 911, we got an extremely quick response from many fire companies.

Yes, the shop, tools, one tractor and some parts were a total loss, but 25 plus tractors of the family collection were saved, mostly unharmed.

Some were used by Linda’s father and grandfather to farm with. Currently, the fourth generation is involved in the collection. It could have been a large monetary loss, but a much, much larger sentimental loss.

Thank you to friends, neighbors and strangers that dropped everything to help an old worn out farmer that morning.

Rick and Linda Stuchal and family,

Mercer Township