Thanks for keeping us updated Virtual. I think a Memorial and an auction at Vanfest is the best idea! We all knew we would get a visit in with him there; I don't think he ventured into the States the past few years?
I am so glad my Daughter Kelly got to meet him this year at Vanfest. And to the Vanners that never got to meet Al Brown, you sure did miss out on talking to one of our oldest Vanning Icons whom had stories upon stories to tell. I have not stopped thinking about Al since I heard the news this week. My sympathy and heartfelt condelences to his Daughter Linda and Family. Al Brown was an amazing, warm and generous Vanner whom I am proud to say was a big part of our Vanning Family. Gills and I are looking forward to celebrating his life at Vanfest and sharing some of Al's stories. Although physically he will not be there this time, I know we will feel him in our hearts with his big smile

RIP brother. Even though I didn't know him I feel that I did though, through the Vanners who did. Some how every story told or any gathering at a event have him and others that started this thing we call Vannin all over it. As many have said with out people like him we would not be chatting on this forum or even vannin. So even if we don't know some one like Al Brown we actually do through the vanners that did. They keep his tradition a live.
I need to go to these events to get to know people like him and listen to the stories of vannin as it was!!!


Richard

How about creating a page or calender with past vanners with pics of them and their vans ?

There is an extensive listing with stories and pictures of many of the vanners who have passed on here: Vanner memorial on vannin.com as well as a travelling display that you can see at the CofC and Nationals each year. Big thanks to Astro, Tom and all the people who are involved with keeping these memories going.

I have often said that the stories need to be told, over and over, or they die with the vanner that knows them...Us "Old guys" are just like you "new guys", we were just lucky enough to be around when the stories were written! Next time tou are at an event, stop by at a campsite or a table or a room you have never visited. Share a drink, share a story, or meet someone new! Hope 2012 is great for everyone!

Some of his memorabilia is right...A complete auction would take 2-3 days

Nicely said there OTR. Being a newbie to vannin and while reading of the loss and legacy of Mr. Brown I quickly accepted that in fact it takes time, conviction, service and the Love for vannin and lifestyle to be truly considered a "Vanner". I'm starting out with a strange and addictive Love for my Van and some changes in life, the hope to continue to meet some great folks and as time passes some of the other qualities you are encouraging others to have.

God speed to Al Brown and prayers up for all his friends. Seemed like my kinda guy.

How right you are Howard, how right you are!

We met Al on our first visit to Vanfest many years back. Al, was a great guy and loved to share a story, an opinion, etc. and will truly be missed. Each year he would make it a point to wander about and stop ant visit with us. We had many awesome conversations about vanning and life in general. I didn't know him as well as some others, but I can bet he passed on with absolutely no regrets.

Van on brother!

The wheels are in motion for Al's memorial at Vanfest and items for the charity auction in Al's name. We're aiming high for this hoping to get $1000+ to donate to a charity in Al's name. There will likely be an online auction for this on Ebay as well so that everyone can get in on it. I have some special van stuff that I'm willing to part with for this cause. I'm also looking into getting a van or two into the local indoor car show here in March, Al's passing makes me realize that we need to concentrate more on getting vanning in the public eye here too and to keep the Canuck vanners motivated.