Members Dave Hanson, Phil Strevey, Bill Phillips and I, attended Bud Sipko's memorial service in Richmond, B.C. on January 27th. What a tribute to Bud and his family! There were 15 speakers and I was privileged to relate to the approximately 900 in attendance.

Prior to the memorial service, Dave Hanson, Bill Phillips, Steve Hart and I did a four mile power walk on River Road where Bud's office is located. At mile marker three, a large eagle flew in front of us and landed atop a 50 foot tree and watched us for a half mile or so as we walked toward Bud's office. I relayed this incident to the attendees at the memorial service and mentioned how the Lord speaks of the eagle as such a powerful force. Bud was absolutely a powerful and positive influence in so many lives. In my talk, I read passages from the many comments submitted through the AADPA forum. Karin and all the family were so encouraged by your thoughtful messages.

A tribute to Bud is in the latest Communicator but there is an error. Bud actually passed away at home, not at his office, on Saturday, January 20, 2007, while preparing to teach a cooking class in his new beautiful kitchen. Karin was in Dallas visiting their new granddaughter, so Bud regrettably was alone at the time of his passing.

The two hour and forty-five minute memorial service was equally balanced with laughter and tears. The service concluded with a nine and half minute PowerPoint presentation of Bud's life set to appropriate music, designed by his sons Jon and Matt.

A memorial fund has been established to purchase a van to transport handicapped and those in need of transportation in the Richmond-Vancouver area. Contributions can be made to: Dr. Bud Sipko Memorial Fund, c/o Richmond Community Foundation Suite 520, 8100 Granville Avenue, Richmond, BC V6Y 3T6.

Sincerely, Tom McDougal