Our Story
Milton and Mikell Rich are the classic love story. Their vision of a large family resulted in eight children, five girls and three boys. Milton was a passionate and successful entrepreneur, author and father. Mikell was a devoted full-time mother and wife.
They now are proud grand-parents to over 45 grandchildren and great grandchildren.
They had always dreamed about creating a place large enough to gather and enjoy their beloved children and grandchildren; a place that would inspire their loved ones to follow their hearts and create beautiful, meaningful connections; a place where they could celebrate the present, as well as dream about their future.
In 2003 they found it...what has now become the "Hideaway Valley Lodge."
After 20 years of neglect, the Lodge was in serious need of some tender loving care. Luckily, Milton has always suffered from severe work-a-holism. The two were a perfect match.
Three years of time, money and love went into the Lodge. The date was finally set and we were just weeks away from our family reunion we all look so forward to. However, very unexpectedly, Milton suffered a heart attack and passed away.
Our father had instilled in us a positive view of all things and this led to a belief we adopted, which is that success does not come for free, but with hard work and determination and a great attitude, anything is possible. Happy endings are possible when we believe and trust in a power higher than ourselves and live our lives in service to others.
Immediately after Milton’s departure, a dear friend of the family stepped in and began taking care of Mikell’s every need. Mike was a blessing that came at the perfect time. As he served her, a sweet romance began to brew and after some time has passed, the two friends became husband and wife.
Now, years later, as the building has sat mostly empty, Mikell and Mike have decided to carry on Milton’s vision by opening the doors of this magnificent mansion to you! His vision of family, businesses and friends gathering together to celebrate and connect can become a reality for you. It is our sincere intent that you and the important people in your life will feel the spirit of love that created this space and will enhance those priceless bonds.
It is our sincere hope that you come to this magical place and celebrate what you have now in the present. For the present is truly a gift.
We love and miss you Dad and can’t wait till we can again celebrate with you one day. Thank you for all you’ve given us, most of all your heart.
PS: One other reason to celebrate the present...because in the future those glasses you’re wearing may not look nearly as cool! :)
