The news of George Etzel’s death deeply saddened all members of the Nature Center community. On behalf of the board of directors, trustees, and staff I extend our sincere sympathy to George’s friends and relatives. All of us at Indian Creek Nature Center are grateful for George’s generosity and passion for his family, his land, and his community.
In 2016, George left 192 acres of his family’s land to Indian Creek Nature Center so we could protect it, care for it, and honor it in the same way his family had since 1888. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue to care for and farm Etzel Sugar Grove Farm, which includes Lafayette Mill and the George Etzel Timber. We will grow the farm as a model for innovative farming practices and celebrate the land, just as George and four generations of the Etzel family did before him.
Over the past few years, I spent quite a bit of time with George. He was proud to share with me his family’s history and told me stories that I will cherish for a lifetime. I will always remember George’s sense of humor and lightheartedness. He sincerely cared for others and was passionate about leaving his stories as a legacy for others.
All of us at Indian Creek Nature Center will remember George in the land, the trees, and the fields of Etzel Sugar Grove Farm and are forever grateful for his generosity.
With sincere sympathy,
John Myers
Executive Director