The Villages History


Much like the rich history that accompanies the residents here, The Villages has its own special story. Mike Wilcox recognized the need for an independent senior living center that honored the freedom and
individuality of seniors. He also saw the need for a graduated level of care, instead of a one-size-fits-all approach to senior care.

Meet the staff at The Villages independent and assisted living center.
Michael Wilcox, Villages CEO; Jean Wilcox, Villages President;
Amy Wilcox-Burns, Villages Operations Officer;
Ryan Burns, Villages Financial Officer

A Call to Serve


Mike’s strong and caring parents and grandparents taught him about independence and motivated him to his current calling to serve seniors.

“We feel like we are blessed with the opportunity to serve and work with the residents who call our communities home and also feel that it is a great way for us to honor our caring parents and grandparents.”

The Villages, located in Marion, Iowa, is located near the city of Cedar Rapids, IA
Village Place was opened in 1985 and was purchased by Tapestry Village Place Independent Living, LLC. Village Ridge opened in 1995 and was purchased in 2005 by Village Ridge, LLC

Family Owned and Operated


This family-run business holds tight to its core values. His approach to senior care: treat The Villages residents like they are his own family, in a loving and caring manner. And that’s the same approach you’ll find from the staff and management at The Villages.

The Villages offer senior residents a beautiful garden-like environment.
Residents can often be found taking walks in The Villages garden-like setting.

Meet Michael


When Michael Chambers decided to get a degree in Social Services as a way to give back to his community, he planned to work with young boys. However, when he got a job at The Villages two-and-a-half years ago, he realized life had another thing in mind for him.  Currently the Life Enrichment Coordinator at Village Place, Michael is in charge of planning and executing the activities and outing for the residents. He’s also a good friend to many of the residents, and someone they enjoy spending time with. “Every day I come to work with a smile, knowing I get to impact somebody’s life,” Michael says.  Michael says his job is all about the residents, anything he can do to make their lives better because they deserve that. “More than anything I enjoy my day-to-day interaction with this population. This is where life brought me and I’m happy for it every day.” And so are the residents of Village Place!

The Villages of Marion offers modern facilities for independent and assisted living for seniors.