Farewell, Gene Amondson... See You Again!

This past week, Gene Amondson, a dear friend and regular reader of Musings from Maytown, passed into eternity. Gene Amondson was, as Reader's Digest would say, my most unforgettable character..
Gene Amondson was raised and made his life on Vashon Island near Seattle, Washington. Born into a family filled with ministers, Gene attended Warner Pacific College and then Asbury Theological Seminary in preparation for his life as a Church of God (Anderson, IN) minister.
But Gene's primary ministry was fighting alcohol. An admirer of the well-known Evangelist Billy Sunday, Gene Amondson traveled the country reenacting the famous Billy Sunday sermon on Booze. On two occasions, I arranged for Gene to tour Alabama giving the Billy Sunday sermon on Booze.
Amondson caught the attention of the Prohibition Party, the third oldest political party in America, who asked Gene to run for President on the Prohibition ticket. Not normally interested in politics, Gene used the Prohibition candidacy as a platform to fight alcohol. As a result, Gene Amondson was interviewed on network television, nationwide radio, and even international venues-- all involving his opposition to alcohol. Television interviewers would often compare Gene's appearance to that of Vice President Dick Cheney.
Gene Amondson was also known for his water-color paintings, his unique wood carvings, his children's stories, his ministry with singles groups, and his pie making. In fact, Gene Amondson authored a book of pie recipes that may be downloaded from his website.
Gene Amondson spread a lot of love around this world. Gene could disagree with you and laugh with you about the disagreement. Gene truly cared about people who had a need and would make friends whenever he could. In June, Gene had me speak to a gathering of the Prohibition Party and we had wonderful fellowship together.
This week, with his four children at his bed side, Gene Amondson bid farewell to this world of cares. His four children include an actress daughter and a movie producing son. All four are successful in their respective fields.
This Saturday afternoon, July 25, Gene's funeral was held in Vashon Island, Washington. I regret that I could not attend, but not to worry. One day, I expect to see my friend Gene Amondson in Heaven where we will enjoy good times again.
I hope you will check out the Gene Amondson website and also the Gene Amondson Videos on YouTube.