The Wickey Music Barn

21/09/2026

06/09/2026

Update on Dad aka Nelson

I realize it’s been a couple of weeks since we’ve updated you.

He is accepting visitors.
There is a pad of paper on top of the dresser. We are asking you to sign in and the date of your visit.
Dad has a difficult time remembering who came to see him.

Our suggestion is two only visit at a time.
If you bring more people with you. Have them sit in lobby and then take turns going in to see dad.

Dad is stable. He is very hard of hearing. So when talking to him let him see your face.
To turn his head to the right is painful.

He is in Avalon nursing facility in Ligonier. He is in room 100. Upon entering lobby. Turn right and his room is the second door.

To get in to get into the facility:

As you go through main entrance. Hit the handicap button that is on left hand side of sidewalk.
Upon entering. Push the red button and then the handicap button. If you delay in this process an alarm will go off. There is a security code box on the inside of lobby. If alarm sounds. Hit star 326.

When leaving the facility:

When you leave. On the key pad hit star 326 then handicap button on way out. Then press small handicap button to go outside.

What we need: prayers that he is accepted for Medicaid. Prayers for Gods will be done, either by a miracle for complete healing. Or to take him home so he does not suffer.
Pray for us three girls for strength and discernment. As we face decisions needing to be made concerning dad’s care and financially being able to care for dad.

Thank you for your support and the love you have for our dad.

Diane Smith
Susie Neff
Bev Yoder

19/08/2026

It was a rainy evening outside but inside we had a great time listening to great music again at The Wickey Music Barn. August 15th, 2026

15/08/2026

Nelson Burkholder update

Update on Dad aka Nelson Burkholder.

Great news is that he has now requested visitors.

We are starting with small groups before opening up the visitation for all.

He is at the Avalon
Village in Ligonier.

Hours for visitors:
9 am to 11 :00 am
2 pm to 4:30.
The doors are locked at 6:00 pm

There is no phone in Dads room.
He does not have a cell phone.

Physical Therapy is not pre scheduled so if they show up to take him. He needs to go, to comply Medicare.

Your cards lift Dads spirits. Please keep them coming!

Thank you for your loving support.

Diane Smith
Susie Neff
Bev Yoder

07/08/2026

Nelson Update

What a week Dad aka Nelson Burkholder has had.

From being back in the TICU in Ft Wayne, to God opening a door like only God can.

Dad wants to thank those who have sent cards. It lifts his spirits. If you would rather write a note that is ok.

Dad is a very private person regarding his health.

He has requested not to publicize his location.
(Please notice Dads decision. )

His mailing address is:
Nelson Burkholder
PO Box 139
New Paris, IN. 46553.

Dad’s phone is shut off. Dad’s choice right now. If you need to contact him please reach out to one of us.

Dad thanks you along with me and my sisters.
Diane Smith
Susie Neff
Bev Yoder

01/08/2026

Here's the latest update for Nelson. Keep praying friends.

Well family & Friends Dad aka Nelson Burkholder is still with us.
So much is discombobulated right now. It’s hard to know what the next day will bring.
Yet, I know he has many people who love him. And the only way to communicate with him right now is snail mail.
Nelson Burkholder
PO BOX 139
New Paris, In. 46553
Only God knows his plans for Dads future.
We need prayers for doors to open. For God to provide a way when we can’t see one.
For us Sister’s to be at peace. To give us strength and the guidance to do whatever needs to be done.
Dad sends his love to all.
He is still fighting the fight.
Thank you again for your love, prayers and support.
Diane, Susie and Bev.

24/07/2026

Update on Dad aka Nelson Burkholder
What a week we’ve had.

First the good news - Dad is now 94!
He was disheartened that he couldn’t spend it in the manner he wanted. We did our best to turn it positive.

Now the not so good… aging and the way the insurance & medical procedures are now done. If you’re over a certain age, the only thing they will do is sustain and not ‘fix’ that which they would do in a younger patient.

Big changes will be happening in the next week. Then maybe Dad will allow us to be more transparent.

We appreciate all who are still hanging with us in the updates. I realize the information given has been vague. We are honoring Dads choices.

We are asking that the boundaries that have been set; Dad’s location and medical status be honored. So much gossip is being said which all is not true.

Right now we are asking for prayer for divine discernment.

We are thankful for each one of you.

Diane, Susie, and Bev

20/07/2026

Nelson update!

Update on Dad - Nelson Burkholder.
Dad is improving in physical therapy. It wears him out. He sleeps a lot. He loved the cards sent! We have them all up in his room!
Pastor Seth brought him a large print bible to use while he is there. And Pastor Jason who is his favorite was able to come this week!!
When dad was a young kid, one of his best friends growing up Paul Wise, took him to NMC. Dad went back again after attending NPM for many years. Full circle!
Tuesday, July 21st Dad will turn 94!
Please send letters or cards to keep his spirits bright. If you would include example. Diane Smith youngest daughter. It would help us with him to let him know how he knows you. The address is: Nelson Burkholder, Box 139 , New Paris, In. 46553.
What I’m praying for is for God to completely heal him. And if not. Not allow him to suffer. I am seeking Gods will to be done.
All of us girls appreciate you and your love of our Dad.
Diane, Susie and Bev

19/07/2026

Wow, we had another fantastic show at the Wickey Music Barn last night! Thanks to all who came out to enjoy the music and who brought food to share and a huge thanks to Toby and Rosie Eicher for bringing BBQ chicken! A great shout out to everyone who shared their talents during their 20 minute slots. A special welcome to all the first timers that were there also. Last but not least a huge thank you to North Sky Revival for entertaining us with a great show!