12/18/2025
I want to share something very personal with you all.
My husband and cofounder of American Tortoise Rescue, Marshall, passed away recently. For more than three decades, he worked quietly and tirelessly beside me, driven by a deep love for animals and a belief that every turtle and tortoise deserved care, protection, and respect.
American Tortoise Rescue began with the two of us simply wanting to make the world a little better for turtles. Everything we built, we built together. Marshall’s kindness, dedication, and steady presence will always be part of ATR’s foundation and its mission.
It has taken me some time to share this news.
Alongside this loss, there have been many personal and sanctuary transitions happening at once, and finding the right way to tell everyone has been difficult. After nearly 30 years in Malibu, I decided it was time for a change. I have moved to a smaller place to be closer to my grandkids, which has been a real comfort. With less space, I had to make some difficult decisions about our sanctuary. Some of our larger tortoises, like Tank and Popcorn, and many others have moved north to a wonderful new home at Turtle and Tortoise Rescue of Arroyo Grande. It is a volunteer-run, family-led sanctuary where rescued turtles and tortoises enjoy room to roam, sunshine, and expert care. I am so grateful for their warm welcome and the shared commitment to lifelong rescue and education.
I appreciate your patience and understanding as I navigate this moment.
If you would like to make a donation in Marshall’s honor, please make a donation to Turtle and Tortoise Rescue of Arroyo Grande in his name. Those gifts will support the continued care of turtles and tortoises Marshall helped rescue and rehabilitate for over the years: https://www.turtleandtortoiserescueofarroyogrande.org/donate
Thank you for your kindness and your compassion. It means more than I can say.
With gratitude,
xo Susan
