FRANKENMUTH, Mich. — A family’s annual holiday trip to Frankenmuth took a heartbreaking turn after their car was broken into, resulting in the theft of several items, including a deeply sentimental possession: the cremated remains of a loved one.
The family, who visits Splash Village and Bronner's in Frankenmuth every Christmas, was staying at the Frankenmuth Hotel when they discovered the break-in. Among the stolen items was a black rectangular box resembling a thick book, containing the ashes of the woman's brother-in-law.
“We’re not worried about the material things that were taken,” she said. “We just want his ashes returned. They meant so much to us.”
The ashes, stored in a stationary spot under the vehicle’s passenger seat, were a source of comfort to the family. “It may sound unusual, but bringing him with us on trips felt like keeping him close,” she explained. “We never imagined they would be stolen.”
The family is appealing to the public—and to the individual responsible—for the safe return of the remains. They emphasized that they are not interested in pressing charges.
“If you find the box or realize what you’ve taken, please return it. You can leave it at Splash Village, the police station, or contact us directly. No questions will be asked,” she said.
The family has also offered a $1,000 reward for the safe return of the ashes. They have contacted local authorities, who are actively investigating the incident. The community has rallied behind the family, with social media users sharing the story in the hope that it will lead to the remains’ recovery.
Despite the incident, the family holds no ill will toward the Frankenmuth community. “This hasn’t changed our love for this town,” she said. “We come every year with our kids and grandkids because of the wonderful people and traditions here.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the family directly, the Frankenmuth Police Department, or the reporter covering the story.
“We just want to bring him back home,” the family said. “That’s all that matters.”
