The Deckert family radiates warmth, hospitality, and a spirit of giving. Ben and Melinda Deckert have been married for 23 years, and their family blossomed in a beautiful way with the adoption of their daughter Olivia in November 2022. Olivia, now 4 years old, is a bright, social little girl who has already brought boundless energy and light into their home.

 

Their family wouldn’t be complete without their trio of four-legged companions: Chief, a 9-year-old Maltipoo; Remington, a lively 3-year-old Goldendoodle; and Rosco, their 2-year-old Sheepadoodle. Each one brings its own charm—and a little bit of playful chaos—to their home life.

 

The Deckerts have lived in Bella Flora since 2017, but their connection to the Fort Worth area runs deep. Melinda, a third-generation Texan, has called Fort Worth home for over 45 years. Ben hails from South Dakota but made his way to Texas in 1998.

 

The couple met that same year during a two-year world missions program, sparking a bond that would turn into a lifelong partnership. Since their marriage in 2002, they’ve made the west side of Fort Worth their home, building not just a life together, but a community of meaningful connections.

 

Melinda is a seasoned Realtor with 18 years of experience, currently with Burt Ladner Real Estate. She’s known not only for her deep knowledge of the market but also for her genuine care for her clients. On a more personal level, she loves hosting dinner parties for friends and family.

 

Ben serves as the Partner Development Supervisor for a global nonprofit ministry, channeling his passion for purpose-driven work. In addition to his professional role, he’s also a talented headshot and portrait photographer on the side.

 

Olivia is a preschool student at Southwest Christian School where her natural curiosity and social nature are already shining through. She loves swim lessons and soccer and is excited to begin dance and piano classes this summer. Watching Olivia embrace life with such enthusiasm is one of the Deckerts' greatest joys.

 

Community service is a cornerstone of the Deckert family's identity. Melinda is an active volunteer with Meals on Wheels, ACH Family Services, and Bible Study Fellowship. She also recently served on the St. Jude committee, giving her time and energy to support critical causes.

 

Together, Ben and Melinda participate in 5ks and other Fort Worth Charity events. On an even more practical level, they support high school students through scholarships and mentorship, offering not just financial help, but encouragement and belief in their potential. “We want them to know that we believe in them and that they have a bright future ahead,” says Melinda.

 

The Deckerts take full advantage of living near both sets of parents—a rare and treasured blessing. Holidays and birthdays are often celebrated together, usually around a shared brunch or with evening gatherings on the patio, where they create special memories over fabulous dinners from the grill and laughter into the night.

 

Some of their favorite family memories have been made right in Bella Flora. They fondly recall the 4th of July parade, where their Great Dane stole the show—and took first place—thanks to a giant red, white, and blue bow. Another favorite was last year’s Easter egg hunt, which marked Olivia’s first. They even invited the Easter Bunny for a surprise appearance, with Ben capturing the moment in cherished photographs for neighborhood families.

 

Whether they’re exploring the shops at Clearfork, wandering through Dream Park, or enjoying educational adventures at the Fort Worth Science Museum and Fort Worth Zoo, the Deckerts know how to fully embrace the fun, family-inspired offerings of this area.

 

Though considered by many locals as only a tourist attraction, The Stockyards remain a favorite Deckert family destination for embracing the city’s western heritage and The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is a perennial favorite on their Winter calendar.

 

At their core, the Deckerts strive to be peaceful neighbors and active contributors to the neighborhood’s vibrant spirit. “We try to foster a sense of community by showing up, supporting local events, and just being kind neighbors,” Melinda shares.

 

Through their involvement, their warmth, and their unwavering belief in giving back, the Deckerts have not only made Bella Flora their home—they’ve helped make it a better place for everyone around them.