Chris and Julia Wiebelhaus have taken ownership of the BeeHive Homes assisted living center in Columbia Falls. Chris built the second home at the facility for previous owners Josh and Jessi Burlage back in 2011.

Up until last September, Chris spent his 23-year career as a home builder. But over the years it gets tough on the body, he said, so he quietly bought the business from the Burlages, who are building another BeeHive facility in Kalispell. Chris will help the Burlages build that one, too, he said.

Julia is working on her state administrator’s license and will spend the next year learning the business under current administrator Barry Melchoir. Julia spent most of her career in hotel and restaurant management.

“It’s been a great opportunity for us,” Chris said. “We’re providing a service for people who need it.”

The BeeHive facility in Columbia Falls currently has two buildings, one with 13 rooms and another with 16 rooms. The property near the Columbia Falls Junior High has room for expansion. Most residents are local Montanans and range in age from 59 to 98.

“They’re built like homes,” Chris said. “We want people to feel like this is home.”

A local doctor even makes house calls. Dr. Linda Hitchcock from North Valley Hospital makes regular visits.

Rent ranges from $2,800 a month to $3,600 a month for a suite.

All meals, medicinal management, laundry and housekeeping are included. Residents enjoy a variety of activities, including visits to Glacier National Park, shopping, concerts and the theater with activities director Kim Allen.

The BeeHive franchise has more than 140 homes in 14 states. The company has been in business for more than 20 years.