Donations sought to help family who lost home in fire Tecumseh

We are broken-hearted over the fire loss of the Ten Cate residents at 4020 Allen Road, Tecumseh. My six children and I lived in the upper flat for three years from 1999 to 2002. Bernie, Teri and their children Justin, Camilla, Curtis and Hollieanne joined with us as a family of God sharing their home, lives, faith and burdens. We felt that we had “run into the high tower and were safe.”

The Ten Cates have owned this home for 33 years, raising their children and sharing their home, sheltering countless other people. They have worked hard to improve and beautify their home and property. It was built in the early 1870’s as a single family dwelling and was once a watermelon farm. We were in love with the architecture of the home. The generous size of the rooms and walk-in closets, high ceilings, nearly 8-ft. windows, grand staircase and beautiful woodwork. At the time of the fire Bernie and Teri lived downstairs and Hollianne and her husband Travis Zietlow and their baby lived upstairs. They are all starting over.

This is a devastating loss for all involved but their dearest hope is to be able to restore their historic home to its original condition as best as they can and to replace the period furniture and heirlooms. Any donations to assist in this endeavor would be greatly appreciated, from help in clean-up or other skills in woodworking, etc. The testimony of God’s help and protection in this situation are evident with many people generously stepping up to help.

Cash donations may be brought to United Bank andTrust for the Ten Cate fire fund. Canisters are available at all Perky Pantries for money gifts. Material goods may be brought to the Riverbend Friends Church at 9500 Tecumseh-Clinton Rd.,423.3977. All prayers are gratefully appreciated.

Jeannie Romero
Clinton