Page 9 - Photo Album for Bob Seger

Hey Bob~ June 2019

My name is Zuesha Suzanne Sara Lunsford, granddaughter of Gordon and Mable Smith-Aikens, owners of Spratt
Tavern in the 60’s. Grandma’s sister Clara used to live with your mom in Florida. Having been raised in northern
Michigan, your music has been a soundtrack of sorts for most of my life and it’s always been exciting to know you’re
family. I’ve spent nearly 60 years ‘trying to get my courage up’ to write this letter.

In 2010, just before returning to Alpena to care for my father, Captain Ronald Aikens, I met the love of my life in
Nashville, TN - John Lunsford, aka Buck50 Blues. We took a chance on chance and paid cash for our first property
in Michigan within 6 months of meeting. He was a general contractor from Ventura, CA, but Fitty’s driving passion
was music and he’d worked in the industry for decades. Since 1991, I had been a business woman in Nashville, not
having the guts to sing in public.
Buck50’s powerful vocals left a mark on anyone who ever heard him sing and he was also an accomplished blues
harp player, writer and composer. It may have irritated John that I never wrote you about his talent... he was that
good. But, I didn’t want lose him to the road and instead booked him gigs at local clubs. I began practicing in our
home studio, then started singing during John’s breaks, assuming the name Zue. Originally we were Buck50 & Zue,
then Funlords, becoming one of the most booked duos in northern Michigan for 7 years. We had only just married,
when John suffered a fatal heart attack last year at 63.
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Since then, I’ve spent my time working on our 3 debt free property; a 100 year old Dance Hall and possible hangout
of the early Purple Gang; 3 acres on a blue ribbon trout stream in the woods - Hunters Home Bar in Atlanta, MI.
Rumor is you played here, so you probably know this venue where over 5 generations of families have enjoyed
MANY of their favorite times Up North!

John and I were creating either a bar/restaurant with a heavy emphasis on music, writing, recording and concerts;
perhaps a Private Membership Club or Artist/Res Hangout. This was our dream together, but one that needed our
teamwork, and without John’ skills, muscles and heart, it’s too much for me to handle solo. I’m very fortunate to call
this amazing property home, however maybe it’s time to Turn the Page, even though it breaks my heart to complete
this chapter of my life. I feel urged to make a change, so I got to thinkin’…
Hunters Home will mark it’s centennial in 2023. Why not put YOUR stamp on a new century of
Michigan history…here? It seems only natural that a legend like yourself should benefit from
this legendary setting. You could make it your own, help me share it with folks who
appreciate it, or perhaps forward this to someone visionary. I’m sure you will agree it is
unique and filled with promise. Stop by next time you’re in the area...I’ll buy you a beer!
If you’re still reading—THANKS! I truly appreciate your time and applaud your lifelong legacy
and Farewell Tour. The world is a better place because of your music, talent and soul!
Hope this hasn’t been too forward or casual...You’re woven into the fabric of familiar.
I fondly remain your cousin~
Zuesha