Dell Rio

(1992-2017)

Dell gave more than 10 years of devoted service to our program. His gentle spirit and steady presence touched the lives of countless volunteers and riders, and his passing in 2017 left a space that can never truly be filled. Dell was also Jennifer’s first horse as an adult, purchased in 2003, making their bond deeply personal. He is lovingly remembered and continues to serve as a daily reminder of the love, patience, and healing he brought to Willow Creek Ranch.

Grace

(1997-2025)

Grace was part of the Willow Creek Ranch family long before our programs even began. This sorrel American Quarter Horse played an essential role in our horsemanship and mental health programs for 18 remarkable years. Known for her nurturing, motherly personality, Grace was deeply aware of each individual’s needs and abilities. She helped participants face fears, build confidence, and navigate challenging situations in life.

Grace left her mark on countless lives and on everyone at WCR. She will be remembered with love and gratitude as a true cornerstone of our herd. Grace was also the proud mother of WCR horse Calibur.

Grace and her best friend, Pixie were inseparable and they worked together beautifully. Grace even helped raise Pixie’s daughters, Fergie and Letty.

In the months leading up to Grace’s passing, it was obvious, the depth of the connection horses share with each other. Pixie carried a kind of caregiver fatigue, sensing that Grace was not well, and she took on those emotions with a quiet tenderness and loyalty that spoke volumes about their bond. Their friendship, service and love of our clients – and for each other – will forever remain a cherished part of Willow Creek Ranch’s story.

Pixie

(2003-2025)

Pixie was a talented sorrel American Quarter Horse, who formerly competed in barrel racing and pole bending, reaching the State championship level and earning the distinction of a NBHA World finalist. She joined Willow Creek Ranch in 2014 and became a beloved member of the herd, raising two foals here, Fergie and Letty.

Pixie began her retirement career in WCR’s mental health program. Despite some health challenges and mild facial muscle weakness, she became a devoted, gentle, and loving presence for all who worked with her.

Pixie passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and loyalty. She was Grace’s inseparable best friend, and the two worked together beautifully; Grace even helped raise Pixie’s daughters, Fergie and Letty. In the months before Grace’s passing, Pixie showed quiet tenderness, sensing her friend’s unwellness and carrying those emotions with unwavering devotion. Pixie’s gentle spirit, loyalty, and nurturing heart—both to Grace and to WCR clients—will forever remain a cherished part of WCR’s story.

Mr. Red Ruck (Buck)

(2005-2021)

Buck joined the Willow Creek Ranch family in 2012. A talented American Quarter Horse, he was an AQHA world qualifier in heading, heeling, and breakaway competitions across the Midwest.

In the spring of 2015, the buckle-winning professional rope horse found a new purpose in retirement through WCR’s riding and mental health programs. With gentleness, kindness, and an unmatched work ethic, Buck excelled at healing people and providing a calm, trustworthy presence. His unwavering heart, patience, and quiet strength continue to inspire everyone at WCR, and he will forever hold a place in our hearts and herd. Buck left a lasting legacy.

The Ultimate Warrior (Prince)

(1992-2017)

We remember Prince, who served our program for nearly a decade. An old soul and “been-there-done-that” Saddlebred, Prince came from the show circuit with a wisdom and steadiness that made him a horse anyone could trust and handle. His calm presence and willing spirit endeared him to riders and volunteers alike, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. We are grateful to Brian for sharing his first horse with Willow Creek Ranch, allowing Prince to touch so many lives.

Freddie

(2012-2026)

Freddie joined Willow Creek Ranch in January 2022 and was a cherished member of our herd. We understand that Freddie came from Missouri, was purchased at an auction in North Dakota, and spent time in Illinois before arriving here. In Missouri, he may have worked at a stockyard helping to move cattle, sheep, goats, and horses for auction, as well as some trail riding.

Freddie was an affectionate, curious “in-your-pocket” horse whose friendly personality made him a favorite with both riders and volunteers. His smaller size made him especially well-suited for our younger riders, allowing him to help people gain confidence, connection, and joy through the equine assisted service programs.

Freddie experienced ongoing, severe laminitis throughout his time at WCR. Despite extensive treatments—including x-rays, padded shoes, specialized diet programs, and medication—his condition continued to cause significant discomfort, and WCR ultimately could not allow him to continue to suffer.

Freddie had a remarkable way of making everyone feel loved, offering his famous “horse hugs” and greeting each person with soft nuzzles. His sweet spirit and presence touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed.