About the Ranch

Jean was one of the founders of The Ranch in 2020.  The intention was to get Mark the help he needed, while building a program for the thousands…yes, thousands…of others struggling with head trauma and mental illness. This would be a place for healing naturally through therapy and camaraderie. A place for new beginnings.

Graduating with honors in 1977 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, Jean worked in Human Resources for 10 years. Later, she left the business world to raise her three children on their Minnesota hobby farm near the Twin Cities with her husband, Larry.

After volunteering at the local schools and church, she returned to college for her Bachelor of Science Degree in Special Education Teaching, then later went on for her Masters of Science Degree.  Now, twenty years later, she is retired. “I want to dedicate time to helping others get through this horrible heartbreak.  I have a new calling.”

Mark believed in the cause. He also saw the need for more resources; more places to turn to in the fight against the invisible wounds left by trauma.  When you’ve lived it, you understand the need and the urgency. Before taking his life, he asked that we keep this going.

“We miss you, Mark.  We’ll be honored to keep it going.”

When we face adversity, trauma, mental health, and addiction it is common for our lives to unravel. I personally experienced this, and was able to find my footing and heal in a manner that gave me the time to find self-love, self-compassion, self-respect, confidence, and a greater understanding of my identity.
I previously worked as the Assistant Director for the Eagle’s Healing Nest and the work itself provided me with a new purpose which became a passion of mine. Over time, I began to understand WHY I kept coming back to help brothers and sisters who faced the same struggles I experienced. There are residents that have tried and failed multiple times for many reasons, but they can find something different at The Ranch.
They find they can be a part of a community, they find family again, and for many they find a home again.
In my time working with many residents my understanding of WHY became even greater. There are days where I question and doubt myself, on those days I still need the people that helped me stand when I couldn’t. On my worst days, I still need to know someone loves me and cares for me. I want to be able to help others, the way that I was helped. It is why I am still here today.
My education and professional background includes a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Business Education from Dakota State University. 19 years in the Minnesota National Guard, retiring at the rank of Captain. I have been blessed in my civilian career working in multiple industries in management and administrative roles. Aspects of every job have helped prepare me for my role as Resident Director of The Ranch – Teammates for Life.

Malarchuk, who was born in Grand Prairie, Alberta, played junior hockey in the Western Hockey League. He went on to play professionally in the NHL for the Quebec Nordiques, the Washington Capitals, and the Buffalo Sabres, and in the IHL for the San Diego Gulls and the Las Vegas Thunder.

After leaving the NHL as a player, he served as head coach of the IHL Las Vegas Thunder and the Idaho Steelheads. He was then a goaltending coach for the NHL Florida Panthers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Atlanta Thrashers and Calgary Flames.

Malarchuk is most notably known for an on ice accident while tending goal for the Buffalo Sabres. Clint’s jugular vein was severed by a skate and he almost died right on the ice.

Living with severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression Malarchuk survived a suicide attempt which finally led to treatment and recovery.

Clint’s book “The Crazy Game” How I Survived The Crease And Beyond was the beginning of his Mental Health Advocacy and charity work. Clint now speaks around North America on Mental Health, PTSD, Depression, Suicide and his struggles with Mental Illness and how it affects you.

Clint’s memoir, The Crazy Game: How I Survived in the Crease and Beyond, was published in 2014.

Barry David Beck is a former professional ice hockey player and past head coach of the Hong Kong National team. Beck was selected second overall in both the 1977 NHL amateur draft and the 1977 WHA Amateur Draft from the New Westminster Bruins. Beck helped the Bruins win the 1977 Memorial Cup, and was awarded the Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy as the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. He opted to move to the NHL over the WHA, and began his career with the Colorado Rockies.

On November 2, 1979, Barry was traded to the NY Rangers in a blockbuster deal that included 5 current NY Rangers players and future considerations heading to Colorado in exchange for him. In 1980, his second year with the team, Barry was named Captain of the NY Rangers. He was also an NHL All Star 5 times during his career. In 1989, after healing his shoulder, and 3 years on the sidelines, Barry returned to the NHL and played with the Wayne Gretzky led Los Angeles Kings. He retired from professional ice hockey in 1990.

For over a decade, Barry worked for the Hong Kong Academy of Ice Hockey, with the objective of promoting and developing ice hockey as a sport for all in Hong Kong. He resides in Hong Kong and has started FallinStars.org to promote mental wellness. “Respect Mental Health. Everyone should have access to help and support.”

What Barry believes in on and off the ice:

“The one word that encompasses the emotions and experiences I’ve had over the past ten years is “Respect”. It is the one word that explains the game of ice hockey from top to bottom. I want students to never forget this word.

Yes. We firmly believe in building character, self-esteem and confidence but you must respect yourself and your teammates to accomplish goals. Everybody loves to win. We don’t teach losing although you may get a medal for it at some point. Trying your best goes way beyond the on-ice product. It defines who you are. This is something you will take with you the rest of your life.

Great athletes and people who are successful have role models and mentors that give guidance, but the competitive spirit comes from within, “Nobody out competes you. That’s trying your best”.

Barry has chosen to be involved in “The Ranch – Teammates for Life” because he “wants to support the cause of eliminating the stigma of mental illness. Helping former and current player seek treatment or mental and brain disorders. Supporting the efforts of finding an early diagnosis of CTE. Make the dream come true of a ranch that can assist people to thrive in a secure environment. Let the Magic Begin!”

Barry takes his role of a teammate and captain in real life very seriously. He carries those words with him as a badge of honor, even now 30 years after he stopped playing professional hockey, he is involved in helping his former teammate and all others get the help and treatment they need.

Interests & Community Outreach

Barry has interests outside of hockey, including a music studio, where friends come and work on their craft. He learned how to play the bagpipes because his mother said “You’ll always have a job!”. His joy of music continues in Hong Kong, where you can find him jamming with the local bands.

Barry played in various charity hockey games during the years after retirement, and prior to leaving for Hong Kong. Whenever the community called upon him for assistance, Barry always said yes. After his son was born, Barry concentrated on working and developing youth hockey. In 2006, when he was contacted by senior officials from the Hong Kong, he decided that was the place that would take advantage of his expertise, along with bringing ice hockey to a country that had rarely seen ice.

Thomas John Gorence is former NHL player who competed in the league for six seasons as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers and Edmonton Oilers. He was a member of the United States national team at the 1981 Canada Cup and 1982 Ice Hockey World Championship tournaments.

Better known as “TJ” to his teammates and Flyers’ fans, right winger Gorence was born March 11, 1957 in St. Paul, MN. After playing two seasons at the University of Minnesota, the Philadelphia Flyers selected him in the second round (35 overall) of the 1977 NHL draft, where he played all but the final 12 games of his NHL career.

Early in his Flyers career, TJ found success on a line with Mel Bridgman and Bob “the Hound” Kelly, which was respectably dubbed the “KGB line.” His most successful NHL regular season campaign was in 1980-81 when he scored 24 goals/42 points in 79 games for Pat Quinn’s team.

With the Flyers, Gorence dressed in 291 regular season games (57 goals/52 assists/ 109 points) and 37 playoff games (9 goals/6 assists/15 points). TJ’s combined NHL career: 303 regular season games (58 goals/ 53 assists / 111 points / 89 penalty minutes); 37 Stanley Cup Playoff games (9 goals / 15 points /47 penalty minutes).

Gorence’s NHL career was cut short due to injuries, but that didn’t stop him from moving forward in life. Prior to entering the NHL, he studied at the University of Minnesota, and while playing, he continued his studies at Villanova. After hockey, he had a very successful career in sales.

TJ retired at the age of 44 and moved his family to Hawaii. While there he was very involved with a variety of charities, including Big Brothers, MADD, and charity golf tournaments benefiting NHL players and many others throughout Hawaii. After more than a decade, he moved his family back to the mainland where he continues to be involved in charitable endeavors. He is currently President of the Desert Motorcycle Club, with nationwide membership as well as Canada.

In his own words: “Life is not a dress rehearsal.” This philosophy speaks to TJ on many levels. His bottom line: “If you want something, then it’s up to you to make it happen.”

Ronn, born in March 1958 in Eveleth, MN, was the youngest of three sons, each spaced two years apart. His father was the Squirt team’s coach and passed on his love of the game to his trio of boys, which wasn’t difficult in the town that is home to the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame.

The combination of his family involvement, Minnesota’s love of the game, and his hometown’s obsession with hockey made Ronn both a player and a student of the game. He was the captain of the Eveleth High School’s hockey team, and in his senior year, was voted the team’s Co-MVP, along with Mark Pavelich, who would later play for the U.S. Olympic team and the New York Rangers.

Ronn played for Rensselaer for four years until his graduation in 1980. He continued his involvement in hockey and became one of the collegiate game’s best recruiters, sought by both Rensselaer and Notre Dame.

In 1982 Ronn joined the Harvard staff serving first as chief recruiter and defensive coach. Subsequently he was appointed an associate head coach to Bill Cleary, and ultimately named head coach in 1990. In his 9 years at the helm, he guided the Crimson to NCAA tournament berths in 1993 and 1994. His squads won three ECAC regular-season titles, one ECAC tournament crown, one Beanpot championship and a pair of Ivy League titles. During his tenure, Ronn was a two-time finalist for the American Hockey Coaches Association “Coach of the Year” award.

“Timing is everything. This was my goal, although I did not know it would come at Harvard. I wanted to be a head coach at the Division I level, and as far as I’m concerned, I don’t think there’s a better job in the country.”

Following his resignation from Harvard, Ronn redirected his career and has spent 20 years as a Medical Sales Rep.

Ronn and Mark’s friendship began at the Eveleth Hippodrome when they were Squirts.

“We were squirts, probably 9 years old. There must have been another game going on, and we were sitting together with a group of guys who just had played, and I had bought a bag of peanuts from the concession stand, and I was sharing them, with him in particular. And he started to call me ‘peanut boy’ as a nickname. Thank God it didn’t stick.”

Before Mark’s death, he called and asked Ronn to become part of The Ranch – Teammates for Life group. He knew Ronn would get things done. Because … best friends forever!

Tony Granato is a passionate mentor, coach, and former professional hockey player, dedicated to empowering individuals both on and off the ice. With a career that spans decades in professional sports, Tony’s leadership, resilience, and commitment to teamwork have made him a true advocate for personal and professional growth.

After a successful NHL career, which included playing New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks, Granato transitioned to coaching and mentoring, bringing his deep understanding of teamwork, leadership, and personal development to athletes, executives, and individuals from all walks of life. Tony’s Coaching Career includes the Colorado Avalanche, Pittsburgh Penguins, Detroit Red Wings, University of Wisconsin, and Team USA.

Tony’s philosophy centers around the belief that true success comes from the strength of relationships and the power of a supportive team. His unique approach combines discipline, empathy, and a deep commitment to building lasting, meaningful connections.

Outside of his professional work, Tony is an advocate for giving back to the community and inspiring others to live with purpose and integrity. His dedication to fostering the growth of others is a reflection of his own lifelong journey of learning, growth, and connection.

In her current role, Elise is responsible for all corporate Finance, Operations and HR functions.  She joined IIS in 1992 as employee number 1. Since its inception, she has been an integral part of the company’s evolution to become a recognized industry leader. By imparting her personal “whatever it takes” philosophy, she instilled the “customer first” mindset within her departments which is a fundamental cornerstone to IIS’ success. While creating an environment that makes employees feel empowered and recognized, Elise believes that her greatest accomplishment has been her ability to enlist the most talented, professional and hardworking team who will ensure that her “whatever it takes” philosophy comes to fruition.

Prior to joining IIS, Elise was employed by MTI Systems from 1980 – 1991 holding numerous roles including Purchasing Manager, Inside Sales, Operations Manager and Senior Product Manager.

Elise holds a BBA in Business Administration from Hofstra University, and currently resides in Melville, New York.  As well as being a lifelong diehard NY Rangers hockey fan, her interests include animal rescue, cooking, and travel.

Elise’s involvement with “The Ranch – Teammates for Life” was a natural fit because it combines two of her passions: the NY Rangers and her desire to give help and support where needed. When she heard about Mark Pavelich’s difficulties, her immediate reaction was to reach out and offer her services.

Due to a strange twist of fate (thank you Scoop!) she is a now a member of the team striving to score the goal of a lifetime …. turn the dream of “The Ranch – Teammates for Life” into a reality. Elise is thrilled to be a member of the board of “The Ranch – Teammates for Life” organization.

Chris Nilan is a former NHL player, respected mentor, and passionate advocate for personal transformation. Known for his fearless, hard-hitting style of play and his leadership on and off the ice, Nilan brings a unique blend of experience, resilience, and wisdom to The Ranch – Teammates for Life.

With a career spanning over a decade in the NHL, Nilan made his mark with the Montreal Canadiens, Boston Bruins, and New York Rangers, earning a reputation as one of the league’s toughest and most respected enforcers. But beyond his physical presence on the ice, Nilan’s true strength lies in his ability to inspire others to overcome challenges and build the mental toughness needed to thrive in both sports and life.

Drawing from his own experiences, Nilan teaches the importance of discipline, perseverance, and the power of self-belief—lessons he learned while facing adversity both in the high-pressure world of professional hockey and in his own life. His approach is grounded in authenticity, personal accountability, and a no-nonsense mindset that helps clients push past obstacles and reach their goals.

Chris is a strong advocate for mental health and addiction recovery, using his own platform to raise awareness and help others navigate life’s toughest battles. His dedication to helping others find purpose, strength, and resilience mirrors the very values that guided him throughout his career and personal life.

Husband / Dad / Entrepreneur / Former Professional Hockey Player / Health & Wellness Advocate

Scott Kelsey grew up in Clark Mills, NY where he found a love for hockey. After graduating from Hamilton College in 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Economics, he played professional hockey for 10 years. Over the course of his career, Scott competed in more than 500 games in the ECHL and CHL.

Life after hockey has been satisfying and successful as Scott transitioned into the business world. He has spent over 23 years in the mortgage industry working with some of the nations’ top mortgage companies. He specializes in building mutually rewarding long-term relationships.

Always active and community oriented, and having never lost his love for the game, Scott coached at various levels with the Princeton Youth Hockey Association as well as with the Princeton Day School hockey program.

In 2018, Scott suffered a traumatic brain injury after falling down the stairs in his home. His injuries were not only physical, but emotional as well, having been diagnosed with anxiety and depression. In the aftermath, he realized the importance of choosing to use each day as a positive step toward growth and healing. Subsequently he became an advocate for mental health, with a focus on self-discovery. Combined with objective understanding he believes leveraging experiences, both good and bad, enables people to achieve greater meaning and happiness out of life.

Through his personal experiences, Scott strives daily in to help change collective mindsets. He became empowered to grow from victim … to victor … to the founder of Shareapy, which centers on the concept that human connection is a key component to success and happiness.

“By sharing our life experiences, we learn to grow together, forging lasting connections and contributing to society in meaningful and impactful ways.”

As a health and wellness activist, Scott is dedicated to making a positive impact on as many people as possible. It was a natural fit for him to join The Ranch – Teammates for Life because its mission statement is in perfect alignment with his personal values and beliefs.

“I help people define and attain levels of personal and professional success in more efficient, meaningful, and impactful ways.”

Scott currently lives in Pennington, New Jersey with his wife Larissa and their two children, Greta (age 5) and Alex (age 2).

Derick Gallagher grew up in South Minneapolis and attended Minneapolis South High School. He grew up playing organized sports and is a big Minnesota sports fan. After graduating from Saint Cloud State in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations including a minor in Russia Studies, he went on to study in Kiev, Ukraine and then attend Chicago-Kent College of Law. Derick received his Juris Doctor and a Certification in International Law in 1999.

Derick spent the first 21 years working at Accounting Firms and in Corporations concentrating on Tax Law, Accounting, Asset Management and Business Services. In 2020, Derick opened his own Financial and Business Services firm where he concentrates on helping individuals and businesses set and achieve goals in their business lives. He also engages in Tax Planning, Financial Management and Business Coaching.

Derick has become an advocate for mental health due in large part to his own struggles with mental health. Having worked hard to understand his own issues, getting help, reaching out and putting forth the effort to address issues and constructively work to understand the source of issues.

In his spare time, Derick enjoys playing Basketball and Hockey. Derick is a big fan of film noir and history.

Born and Raised in Harrodsburg Ky, Will enlisted in the United States Marine Corps stepping on the “yellow footprints” at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in June 2004. Throughout his 8 year Marine Corps Career Will served in Marine Corps Security Force Battalion 3rd Fleet Anti-Terrorism Company, 3rd Battalion 2nd Marines Kilo Company, and Combat Logistics Regiment 15 with deployments to Cuba, Bahrain, Iraq and Afghanistan. Leaving active Duty in 2012 Will began to battle Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Will kept a “Never Quit” mentality throughout his battles with mental health, and continues to hold this mentality with everything. 

Will is passionate about sharing all he has learned throughout his journey with anybody who needs help. 

Will and his wife Hannah were married in June 2019, and now live on a farm in Lexington Ky, in the heart of Kentucky’s horse country with their son. 

Amy is an Assistant Professor at the College of St. Scholastica, where she teaches courses in accounting, finance, and management. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Amy mentors the Investments and Accounting Club, guiding students toward achieving their career aspirations.

Currently completing her doctorate in strategy and innovation, Amy’s research and knowledge are already helping the current and future financial missions for The Ranch – Teammates for Life.

Beyond her academic roles, Amy is a dedicated member of her community, serving on the Proctor School Board in Minnesota. She is deeply committed to mental health awareness and supporting veterans—a passion rooted in her personal experiences. Her mother’s struggle with mental illness and her father’s service as a Vietnam War Navy veteran have shaped her compassionate approach to creating safe spaces for healing.

Amy’s expertise, empathy, and dedication drive her mission to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health while empowering individuals and communities to thrive.