Elderly couple vanishes from Olive Dell Ranch

Search intensifies as concerns grow within the nudist community over their mysterious disappearance

REDLANDS, Calif.—Concern is growing within the nudist community following the disappearance of Stephanie and Daniel Menard, residents of Olive Dell Ranch, a well-known nudist club in Southern California. The couple, who were last seen on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at their home within the ranch, has not been heard from since, prompting a widespread search effort.

Personal belongings left behind raise alarms

Stephanie Menard, 73, and her husband, Daniel Menard, 79, were reported missing on Sunday when they failed to attend their usual church service, a routine they rarely missed. A concerned neighbor who entered their home found several unsettling details: Stephanie’s purse, cane, and both of their cellphones were left behind, while the television and computer were still on. The couple’s unlocked vehicle was found further down the road from their residence, but there was no sign of them or their small white Shih Tzu, Cuddles, who is also missing.

“There’s no way that Stephanie or Dan could have walked away from that car,” a friend, Tammie Wilkerson, told ABC7. “She has a cane. It was at home, her purse, their cellphones - things they would never have left at home.”

Friends of the Menards have expressed concerns that their disappearance might coincide with an ongoing lawsuit involving the couple and Olive Dell Ranch. While the nature of this legal matter has not been fully disclosed, some friends mentioned that the Menards had been under considerable stress related to the dispute. However, authorities have not indicated any direct connection between the lawsuit and the couple’s disappearance, and there is no evidence to suggest foul play at this time.

Police and community continue the search for the missing couple

Olive Dell Ranch, founded in 1952 by Bill Keissel, is one of Southern California’s most historic nudist resorts. With its picturesque desert mountain setting, the ranch has long been a beloved sanctuary for nudists seeking a peaceful retreat. However, recent developments, including the ranch’s temporary listing for sale last year, and the ongoing legal issues, have cast a shadow over the community.

As the search for the Menards continues, the Redlands Police Department has enlisted search dogs and aerial support but has yet to uncover any leads.¹ Authorities are urging anyone with information about the couple’s whereabouts to come forward.

“I just want them back,” said Sandy Marinelli, a longtime friend, in an interview with CBS News. “They don’t deserve this. ... They’re just good people. They go to church. They don’t deserve any of this.”

Our thoughts are with Stephanie, Daniel, and their loved ones during this difficult time. We hope for their safe return and encourage anyone who might have seen or heard anything to reach out to the authorities. 🪐

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Redlands Police Department at (909) 798-7681 or email Detective Thomas Williams at twilliams@redlandspolice.org. Please reference case No. 240032075.

1. Janoski, S. (2024, August 28). Elderly couple vanish from California nudist ranch under 'suspicious' circumstances. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2024/08/28/us-news/couple-vanish-from-california-nudist-ranch-under-mysterious-circumstances/