Judge appoints guardian and conservator for Robert Ewing, citing incapacity and fiduciary breaches

A Lenawee County judge appointed a guardian and conservator for Robert Ewing on the record after finding clear and convincing evidence that he is incapacitated.

The presiding judge relied on a physician evaluation (dated October 2025 and verified Nov. 13, 2025) documenting advanced Huntington’s disease with dementia, impaired judgment, expressive aphasia and recurrent choking. "I do have clear and convincing evidence," the judge said, that Mr. Ewing requires assistance with activities of daily living and cannot reliably make informed decisions about care, treatment or finances.

The court noted a durable power of attorney and patient advocate previously granted to Ewing’s daughter, identified in the record as Miss Blank, but said she had neglected those fiduciary duties. Counsel for the petitioners argued Miss Blank had not participated in care conferences, had a contentious relationship with Spring Creek staff, and had diverted funds in ways that threatened Mr. Ewing’s housing. The judge said those facts created "a significant breach of fiduciary obligations" and were inconsistent with Mr. Ewing’s best interests.

As a result the court appointed Karen Muir to serve as guardian for care decisions and as conservator for Mr. Ewing’s finances. The judge instructed the conservator to honor valid financial planning documents but to ensure Mr. Ewing’s funds continue to be used first to maintain his housing and care needs. The court said it may be permissible for Miss Blank to remain in the home in limited ways if arrangements do not jeopardize Mr. Ewing’s housing and the conservator approves.

During the hearing Miss Blank repeatedly raised allegations against Spring Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Hillsdale Hospital and an individual named Jessica Bradley, accusing them of restricting visits and misusing Mr. Ewing’s Social Security income. The court’s ruling focused on the medical evidence and the daughter’s failure to demonstrate she had consistently participated in or supported Mr. Ewing’s care.

The court concluded the appointment was necessary to protect Mr. Ewing’s health and finances and closed the hearing without further action beyond the appointments.