Michael Howard Wells

MICHAEL H. WELLS

SHREWSBURY, VT – Michael H. Wells, whose life's work became a cornerstone of therapeutic care in Vermont, is remembered for his deep devotion to family and community and for decades of service to Spring Lake Ranch. As a longtime Executive Director and Trustee, Michael was a steadying influence who helped guide the Ranch from its humble 1930s origins into the complexities of modern mental health care.

Michael grew up in London during World War II, where he experienced King George VI's wireless address announcing the war, endured the London Blitz, and later witnessed Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and eagerly awaited her annual radio messages on Christmas. He attended school at Haileybury, developed a lifelong passion for cars while working in the automobile manufacturing industry, and served as a Second Lieutenant in the Royal Artillery.

Michael arrived at Spring Lake Ranch from England and quickly found his calling. There, he met his wife, Phyllis, and together they raised their family in the hills of Shrewsbury. At a time when mental health care was shifting rapidly toward clinical and institutional models, Michael remained a fierce advocate for the "Ranch way"-the belief that dignity is found in stoking a sugarhouse fire, tending a garden, and sitting as equals at a communal dinner table. He held fast to the conviction that community and meaningful work are essential to mental health treatment and recovery.

Michael's influence extended well beyond the boundaries of the Ranch's 700-acre campus. Before "Therapeutic Community Residences" were formally recognized in Vermont, he played a key role in drafting the state's original licensing regulations. His efforts ensured that small, farm-based therapeutic communities could operate safely and legally within the state's health care system, opening the door for countless individuals to find healing in nontraditional settings.

To the people of Shrewsbury, Michael was a familiar and trusted neighbor. He believed that the Ranch could thrive only if it was an integrated part of the town, and through both his actions and relationships, he often served as a bridge between the Ranch and the local community. His approach was rooted in transparency, respect, and genuine connection.

Michael had a remarkable ability to see the best in people. He was passionate about music-from Aretha Franklin to Jean Sibelius-about cars, including retired Dodge 6-wheel-drive Navy and Army trucks he lovingly resurrected and kept in service at the Ranch for years, and about his carefully tended English garden. He loved Yorkshire Pudding, 1000-piece puzzles, and experiencing the food and customs of other cultures. His warm, welcoming hugs were his signature greeting and goodbye.

Michael is survived by his wife, Phyllis (Polk) Wells; their three children, Jonathon Wells (spouse Lucretia), Hillary Wells (spouse Henry Phelan), and Geoffrey Wells; three grandchildren, Dylan DeFlorio (spouse Dianne), Kyle Phelan, and Cassidy Wells; his nephew, John Goodell; and the extended "Ranch family," spanning generations of staff and residents who found their footing under his guidance.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Michael's life may make a donation in his name to Spring Lake Ranch. Financial aid has been established to support in state residencies. Contributions may be made to the Michael Wells Vermont Residency Scholarship Fund, Spring Lake Ranch, 1169 Spring Lake Road, Shrewsbury, VT 05738.