 For nearly 120 years, the Rutger family has owned and operated their resort in Deerwood. Sarah Winkelman introduces us to Jack and Ann Rutger who have been overseeing the business for over a half a century. Grandmother Josie came into this area from the Gou, Illinois. They married in the late 1880s. Jack Rutger shares the history of his family and their resort business. The history hallway is lined with photographs that demonstrate the family history of the Rutgers resort starting with Grandpa Joe. Well if people want to use this maybe we should build a cottage so we build a cottage then another one then another one so that's how it started so very innocent beginning in 1898. The business has remained in the family since then with Jack and Ann leading the way for the last 65 years. My oldest grew up with my father and watched him here and what he had done all his life so it's this it's very enriching. After so many years they say their secret to success is all about having a family focused attitude. I always feel like we're one big family with the guests and the employees we're everybody's friend so we like that feeling. An atmosphere that keeps tradition alive. Some guests that are in five venue for five generations they go all the way back in the 1940s and it's just fun to be around visiting those people. Long time guests and employees continue to share stories from the many years of their Rutgers business. I've grown up here as our family has and just it's always just been accolades about our parents you know we've heard that all their lives people appreciate their humility their interest and everybody. A passion that continues to grow even after 65 years. That's I think part of the key in what makes Ann and Jack so special they're just they're genuine interest in other people. It's great. And they wouldn't want things any other way. Great way to make a living. The 65th anniversary celebration guest list is still growing with all of the friends Jack and Ann have made over the years. Reporting in Deerwood, Sarah Winkleman, Lakeland News. Now the public is invited to an open house celebration at Rutgers Resort this Saturday beginning at 2 p.m. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.