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January, 2007

2100 Walnut Street

Kansas City, MO 64108

Local Chapter of MAFCA and MARC

NEWS

‘A’

LETTER

Heart of America Model A Ford Club

“

Certificate of M erit” 2006

“

A ward of

Continuing Excellence, 2005

Farewell to George and Ivan

When an automobile from the past undergoes an historic restoration, the result is often

referred to as a timeless classic. Driving a Model A is a timeless experience of sorts.

As far as automotive life expectancy is concerned, the cars are ancient, yet with tender

loving care, they continue to motor down the road.

I wish people were like the Model A in that if we gave them enough tender loving

care, their life span would continue. Obviously, this is not going to happen. Very re-

cently, George Seimears and Ivan Wallen passed away. Their time with us has ended.

However, they have left behind timeless examples of courage and dedication.

I remember back to the time I began restoring my Model A. The car was missing an

emergency brake backing plate. Don Bockelman arranged a visit to Ivan’s place. We

went down into his basement where there were a couple of restoration projects in the

making. Ivan moved to his parts inventory, and in no time he found the backing plate

we needed. To my amazement, he refused to be paid for the part. I began to realize the

car was not as important to Ivan as were the people restoring the car. He was a gentle

teacher who experienced a great sense of joy when he could help another person out.

I remember the first time I met George Seimears. He looked thin and gaunt because of

his battle against cancer. However, his spirit was bold and strong. He did not complain

or blame. Rather, he maintained a strong spiritual center that enabled him to face his

terminal condition with confident faith.

George and Ivan are no longer with us, yet their lives are timeless classics, because

they leave behind examples of commitment and dedication.

Chris Launer, President