History Links
Mary Callewaert
Operations Manager
Starting from humble beginnings as a dishwasher and working her way through various roles including bike rental attendant, housekeeper, server, and dining room manager, Mary Callewaert has honed her expertise in the hospitality industry.
Since 2003, Mary has been an integral part of the Mackinac Island Visitor Bureau Board. Her dedication to the preservation of Mackinac Island’s natural beauty led to her appointment as a resident Mackinac State Park Commissioner by Governor Snyder in 2013, a role she filled until 2019. Today, Mary oversees the family’s downtown operations, bringing her passion for food and wine to life at Mary’s Bistro Draught House. Her discerning palate and love for the culinary arts shine through in her menu and wine selections.
Todd Callewaert
CEO
Todd Callewaert serves as the CEO of the family business. His lifetime of experience in the service industry started from humble beginnings as a dishwasher and working his way up to busser, then server, later continuing the Ryba family tradition as a master fudge maker at Ryba’s Fudge Shops and eventually joining his father, Victor in managing the Island House Hotel.
A proud alumnus of Central Michigan University, Todd’s passion for the industry led him to hold influential positions with esteemed organizations such as the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association, Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, Mackinac Associates, and Little Stone Church. His contributions have been instrumental in the historic preservation and promotion of tourism on Mackinac Island.
During the bustling May to October season, Todd is actively engaged in the day-to-day operations of the Island House Hotel, the crown jewel of the family legacy. His visible presence and hands-on approach create a positive and motivating environment for both employees and guests alike.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Todd finds joy in working alongside his wife, Jennifer, and their two sons, William and Andrew, as they continue to build upon the family’s rich legacy. Together, they infuse their shared values and unwavering commitment to service into every aspect of the Callewaert family business, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for generations to come.
Ann Parrish
Controller
Ann Parrish-Callewaert plays a vital role behind the scenes as the Controller for the family businesses. Her journey within the company began with diverse roles, including server, sales associate, reservations manager, and front office manager, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of the operations.
A graduate of the University of Michigan, Ann’s dedication extends beyond her professional responsibilities. She has previously served as a trustee on the board of Mackinac Associates, demonstrating her commitment to the preservation and promotion of Mackinac Island’s rich heritage.
Ann is happily married to Les, her longtime love, who oversees confectionery production at Ryba’s Fudge Shops. Their two children, Riley and Lilly, are also actively involved in the company, carrying on the family legacy.
Gregg Callewaert
Master Fudge Maker
Gregg began contributing to the family businesses at nine, washing dishes at the Pancake House. From there, he worked his way up through various roles, including busboy and bellman, before becoming Mackinac Island’s youngest fudge maker at just thirteen years old.
After finishing law school, he and his wife, Angel, moved to Chicago to open Ryba’s Fudge Shops in Navy Pier and McCormick Center. These locations have since closed. Returning to Mackinac Island, Gregg has embraced his role as Master Fudgemaker, a position that undoubtedly makes his father, Victor Callewaert, and grandfather, Harry Ryba, proud.
Rarely a day passes that you won’t see Gregg paddling fudge through the window of Ryba’s Corner Shop, often teaching his son, Max, the family craft.
While Gregg focuses on fudge making, his wife, Angel, contributes to the family businesses at Mary’s Bistro Draught House, while their daughter, Eden, works at Ryba’s Mall Shop.
