While stationed in Viet Nam, Tony says out of the blue one day he ran into his old buddy, Spence Gilmer, who had graduated a couple of years ahead of him. Holton had a student body of only 100 kids, so the odds were stacked against seeing someone you knew from high school, in the Marines, thousands of miles away from Indiana. But there he was, and here he is years later with Tony and Willie on the bus.
Spence Gilmer, Willie and Tony
Here are the Gilmer girls, Audie and daughter Shannon. who later wrote in and said, “Honestly one of the best nights of my life with my Dad. Thank you for being a part of it.”
Speaking of Holton, Indiana, on March 2nd a series of tornadoes ripped through town leaving miles of destruction and devastation. R
Rebuilding has been slow but steady. On Saturday a fundraising benefit was held to raise money for the city services that have been strapped for cash since the tornado. Tony made sure his home town had a signed guitar from Willie to have for their silent auction, and today we heard they raised $2,300.00 for the guitar.
The winning bid went to Calvin Ballmer. Congratulations!
I have been a fan of Willie for over 30 years. I’ve had the opportunity to meet Willie on several occasions, even got to be on the bus a couple of times, and it always felt like I knew him personally. He does that, he treats you like he has known you for years.
Willie always takes the time to talk to you, sign an autograph, and gives you his full attention for seconds that seem like an hour. He is one of the kindest people I know, he stays around until the last person that wants to meet him gets to.
Willie has done many great things during his 80 years here on Earth.
He has given many people pleasure and comfort through his music.
I’ve heard he has supported many people financially.
He has influenced people to save the Planet. He loves animals, especially horses. The list goes on and on.
I feel I have been blessed to have met him, and hope I get to see and meet him again soon! I am pushing 70 years old, love the guitar, love
Country music, and I love you Willie! HAPPY 80th BIRTHDAY!
Jerry Pardieck
St. Louis, MO