Just a few days following her picturesque wedding to Jeremy Scheuch, Danielle Colby from ‘American Pickers’ had to bid farewell to a beloved figure in her life, known fondly as the real-life Santa Claus, who brought a touch of “unexplainable magic” to her world.
Enthusiasts of ‘American Pickers’ were joyful to witness Danielle Colby share enchanting moments from her wedding to Jeremy Scheuch on February 15, 2024. Adorning herself in a stunning, powdery blue dress that trailed gracefully behind her, the 49-year-old television personality exchanged vows with Scheuch — a talented photographer — amid the scenic vistas of Puerto Rico.
The wedding, a delightful fusion of rustic allure and artistic expression, brilliantly mirrored the couple’s distinct style and their mutual affection for creativity and aesthetics.
On February 17, Colby took to Facebook to post an image capturing her and Scheuch at the altar, their silhouettes seamlessly blending with the magnificent expanse of the azure sky behind them.
“In this moment I was the happiest I have ever been. Standing on the edge of a mountain with my best friend, overlooking the vast ocean, surrounded by loving family and friends,” Colby penned in the heartfelt post.
Reflecting on the absence of “Papa John,” Jeremy’s father, Danielle expressed, “Our hearts are full, however… we were deeply missing Jeremy’s family that are staying with his dad as he is fighting cancer. Their presence was a hole in our hearts, but we felt their spirit with us.”
Shortly after their nuptials, Colby posted another touching photo, captioned, “Hold on Papa John, we are on our way.”
On February 19, the newlyweds made their journey from Puerto Rico to Kansas City, where Jeremy’s father, unfortunately, succumbed to cancer. At that moment, John, a cherished Santa to countless children over a span of more than four decades, passed away at the age of 70.
Balancing the sorrow of loss amidst moments of joy, Colby shared candid reflections with her supporters, illuminating how this loss has profoundly impacted their family, evoking both tears and treasured memories.
In a moving tribute on Facebook, Colby expressed, “Papa John… You spent your life advocating and creating miracles for the most vulnerable children in your community. [You] opened your doors when we needed you to sprinkle your magic around us as we were going through hard times. You always cared so much and loved so hard.
“It was difficult to move forward with this wedding without you there. So many times we cried, because little things would remind us of you. Little magical moments that we had never experienced before, but suddenly the entire week of our wedding was filled with the most unexplainable magic in our surroundings,” she continued, referencing the man who, according to his obituary, served as president of Santa America from 2015 until his passing.
Colby’s homage to her adored father-in-law included these sentiments: “Even though you were thousands of miles away, trying to heal, you were there with us in every moment, in each sunset and sunrise. Each embrace and celebration. Although you’re no longer physically here, I feel you everywhere. Absolutely everywhere.”
A Community of Support
The ‘American Pickers’ fan community rallied around Danielle and her husband, offering an outpouring of sincere condolences and encouragement through social media.
One compassionate fan conveyed, “I am so sorry for your loss. Even though he couldn’t be there physically at your wedding, he waited and was able to let go knowing you and his son would comfort each other, be there for each other and maybe sprinkle some of his magic dust for others.”
Another added, “Such an expression of love. I am so very sorry for your loss. Papa John is with you and he is smiling!” A third stated, “He will be with you forever. I’m just sorry it will no longer be in the physical world.”
You’re encouraged to share messages of support in the comment section and pass this story along so others may offer their love as well.
