As I sat to write words of tribute to your Dad, multiple memories of the Brown and Willsie families sharing good and sad times came to my mind.  Our family has such fond memories of the kindness shown to us in many different ways.  We want you to know that we are praying for you folks in this difficult time.  We are sad that  we are not able to be in attendance. Our sincere hope is that the Fish Fry will enable folk to express their concern for your family and that you can indeed remember with gratitude the life and activities of a father who loved his wife, kids and grandkids in an exemplary manner.

A TRIBUTE TO ALLEN

There are multiple reasons to celebrate the life of Allen Willsie.  A large number of people have been touched, helped, influenced by, his kind and caring manner.  The Brown family count themselves blessed to be amongst those who have known the Willsie family for a number of years.

In July of 1978 we moved to Thedford.  As I attempted to inquire re the functioning of the Church, Allen was one of the people who I talked to in the first month.  This was a visit with a unique twist that fit well with my farm background.  Our discussion took place while riding on the combine.

Some of the Willsie kids and our kids overlapped in age and went to school together.  I was also interested in the activities of the Willsie family members who attended a youth group.  We would see each other for Sunday worship and the basis of friendship grew.  Then we heard the word---swimming pool.  Mary and Allen extended the invitation to come for a swim, and we didn't have to be asked twice.  We enjoyed this hospitality multiple times and Mary sometimes just added a little more food to the cooking pot and we enjoyed being together around the table.  There were lots of antics in the pool.  Allen would grin, the twinkle in his eye would appear, and then the chuckle and laugh would come next.

Allen's love for Mary, and for his kids was always apparent to Carole  and I .  He capably provided for his family and he was involved in the joys and heartaches that are a part of family life.

A minister relies upon key people who are faithful in attendance, genuine in their concern for the well-being of the church, and willing to help in practical ways.  Allen was willing to listen to my questions and answer them from his years of experience.  He gave me solid, helpful advice.

When our son Trevor was hospitalized with a brain stem tumor, the Willsie family expressed to us their concern and care.  Mary and Allen visited the hospital in London on numerous occasions.  For a man who did not like hospitals, Allen still made the effort to come.  This compassion and concern shown to us was deeply appreciated.  We have never forgotten their acts of kindness.

After leaving Thedford, our friendship would be renewed with visits that would take place when we returned for special services.  Several years ago, Mary and Allen came to our campsite at Arkona and we had a good visit together.  We reviewed good memories and Allen's wit and laugh were very much a part of our evening together.  And, as usual, no complaints from a man who had been in pain for a significant number of years.

When Gary called to tell me of Allen's death, I was shocked and saddened.  Sad - for my sense of loss and sad for the family and people in the church and community who have lost a good friend.

So many folk have good reason to celebrate the life of Allen Willsie.  His was a life well lived.  My mind went to the Bible verse - "Well done, good and faithful servant".  As Allen moves to the next stage of his life - life in eternity - may I add the concluding words from this Bible verse - "Enter into the joy of  your Lord."

John Brown