Each day of the week has 24 hours, 12 in the a.m. and 12 in the p.m. This column will be about the activity of Genie and I the last Saturday in March as to our activity in the a.m. and then in the p.m.
In the a.m., we attended the 82nd Annual meeting of the Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services at Albert Lea High School. There were 255 memberships present as owners of the cooperative utility company. The meeting began with registration followed by an excellent catered breakfast by Hy-Vee. After breakfast, various tables were set up for games. Genie and I played an interesting game called “Pachinko.” All games gave the player a prize.
Bingo began at 9 a.m. in the auditorium with prizes for those getting Bingo. About 25 games were played, with some games played for a credit on your utility bill or cash. At 10 a.m. the business meeting began with the Albert Lea American Legion Honor Guard and the Pledge of Allegiance. Pastor Sean Forde of First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea gave the invocation. Chairman of the board Roger Weness conducted the meeting with Jim Krueger, president and CEO, giving the president’s report.
Chairman Roger closed the meeting after he announced that 10 cash prizes of $100 each would be drawn. It was the first business meeting I’ve ever attended when nobody left at the close.
In the p.m., Genie and I attended the celebration for the life of Yvette Ann Williams at Trinity Lutheran Church in Albert Lea.
A banner in front of the church proclaimed the promise of her Lord, “I have called you by name, Yvette, you are mine.”
Pastor Eileen Woyen, as officiant, gave an excellent homily and was helped by family members of Yvette as they shared memories in word and song. The family told of Yvette’s struggles in life and how she accepted her savior even though she left this world much too young at 49. The celebration was carried out to a packed house. I am sure most of those attending had the same problem I had: too many years, sad and happy.
Yvette, it was a pleasure to know you, especially watching you just shine in your waitress position at Applebee’s.
P.S. What is the definition of a former atheist? Answer: an atheist who attended the celebration of life for Yvette Ann Williams.
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Bob is a retired AAL (Aid Association for Lutherans) agent, currently working on his master’s degree in Volunteering. His wife, Genie, is a retired RN, currently working on her doctor’s degree in Volunteering. They have two children, Deb in North Carolina, and Dan in Vermont. Bob says if you enjoy his column, let him know. If you don’t enjoy it, keep on reading, it can get worse. Words of wisdom: There is always room for God.