WHO
WE ARE

The orchard's history dates back to the 1940s when a local medical doctor and his wife purchased the acreage that first operated as a dairy farm. After trying their hand at growing a few apple trees that ended up being popular within the community, the doctor and his wife began growing a small orchard. In 1952, the dairy barn was converted into an apple barn and by the early 60s, the dairy farm was now operating as an apple orchard. The Baedke family owned and operated the orchard for many years before selling it to first generation farmers, Denny and Emily Stucky, in May of 2022. 

Farming is certainly not just a profession but a way of life, and Denny and Emily have jumped right in with both feet! Denny previously worked for his late father's family business, Dale's Petroleum, and Emily was  a mortgage loan officer turned stay at home mom. When Denny's father passed away of COVID in late 2020, the Stucky family realized just how precious life is and knew it was the right time to take a leap of faith for their family. It just so happened that at the same time, the Baedkes were looking for the right family to purchase the orchard as they were getting ready to retire. The stars aligned and the transition process seemed almost seamless as a new family was ushered in to carry on the traditions of The Community Orchard while also allowing for growth and new ideas!