Deb & Michele

Deb and Michele have enjoyed rural life together for nearly four decades. Michele (also goes by Chele) grew up in Iowa and Nebraska, and Deb almost always lived “a rock’s throw” from the Mississippi river in Missouri. Together they settled in rural west and central Illinois.

Deb loved her work as an EMT on an ambulance working out of a small rural hospital. She later worked at a large chemical company in several capacities; eventually supervising the wastewater department which treated the water used in processing, prior to it being discharged into the Mississippi river. Her environmentally responsible approaches were not always popular but generally proved to be beneficial.

Chele started as a nurse’s aide and later Registered Nurse licensed in 4 midwestern states. She was an early collective member of the Emma Goldman Clinic in Iowa City, Iowa. When she joined Deb they moved into a previously abandoned small farm in an isolated rural area in Illinois. She worked primarily on their farm with the goal of subsistence farming. With Deb’s help and support they enjoyed small animals and a large garden, and eventually grew the farm to 80 acres. When a new challenge seemed timely, Michele returned part time to school, and after many years became a Clinical Psychologist. Mindfulness practice and Buddhist studies continue to be an interest and challenge for her.

Now, BVF seems like the perfect blend. With access to nature, rural surroundings, and community, what more could be wished for? Deb and Chele look forward to getting to know and appreciate diverse neighbors of all ages, beliefs, and abilities. No doubt there will be some good stories to share as well as good meals in the common house!