She made a promise to her husband to keep their tree farm going

Rita Dush, owner of Pine Tree Barn in Wooster, Ohio, continues to run the tree farm as a tribute to her late husband, Roger Dush, who co-founded the business nearly four decades ago. The couple established Pine Tree Barn from the foundation of Roger’s family farm, Yuletide Tree Farm, with the shared goal of preserving their legacy. Two years after Roger passed away, Rita remains committed to keeping the tradition alive, honoring the promise they once made to one another. Pine Tree Barn has grown significantly since its inception, offering visitors a variety of Christmas trees that require several years to mature. According to Brad Moore, the nursery manager, it typically takes around eight years before a tree is ready for harvesting. Customers often spend considerable time selecting the ideal tree, which they then cut down, clean, and prepare for transport home. While the physical tree might only remain in a household for a few weeks, the emotional impact lingers long after the holidays. For Rita, the experience extends beyond providing seasonal decorations. It represents stewardship of the land, beauty, and the joy of creating lasting memories for families. “It’s the Christmas spirit, you make families happy. You see little kids that are happy,” said Moore, emphasizing the emotional connection the farm fosters with its visitors. The significance of Pine Tree Barn runs even deeper for Rita. She and Roger founded the business together over 40 years ago, building upon the roots of his family’s original tree farm. Their vision was not merely to create a successful enterprise but to ensure that someone would continue their work in the future. “We knew we weren’t going to live forever, and we both wanted some farm to continue. That’s why I’m still doing it, and I’m sure if I were him and he were here, he’d be still doing it too,” Rita explained. Every visit from customers, particularly children, brings her immense joy. “It’s wonderful, absolutely wonderful, especially with the little kids, but they’re smiling and happy and bouncy,” she said, reflecting on the moments that remind her of Roger’s presence. The farm has become a living testament to their partnership, with eight years of dedicated effort now realized through the thriving operation. Pine Tree Barn operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering additional amenities such as a gift shop and on-site restaurant. These features enhance the visitor experience, allowing guests to enjoy a full day of holiday shopping and dining alongside tree selection. Information about the farm and its services can be found online, providing further insight into the operations and history behind the establishment. The continued success of Pine Tree Barn underscores the enduring influence of Roger and Rita’s commitment to their shared dream. As Rita continues to manage the farm, she honors the memory of her late husband while ensuring that the legacy of Yuletide Tree Farm lives on through the traditions and values they instilled in their business.