Nation Association of Physically Handicapped - TRIBUTE TO CLARENCE AVERILL

Edited by Brenda Smi writes "This is what is in my heart. I would like to say a few things about Clarence Averill - one of our finest past National Presidents we ever had in NAPH. He was a very dedicated man to NAPH. He was also a great husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. We know how much Mary, his wife of 55 years just this Sept 2004, will miss him as we will miss him. I have missed him already since he got sick and could no longer serve as an officer. He was well known for wearing the Smile Bow Ties. He was a great advocate for the disabled community. He was not scared to let people know what was needed all over about whatever... He did a lot of advocating for a lot of things. Most of all wherever he was, Mary was there by his side...

He gave me my first job in NAPH which was on the Memorial Committee. I was very scared and he knew it. He just patted me on the shoulder and said, "You can do it. Don't be scared to try new things. If you need help ask for it... We are like family." He was so right. We need to work harder to keep NAPH going, growing, and rolling along.

I would like to thank the Saginaw crew for putting on a great dinner after the funeral for the family and friends. I am sure it was greatly appreciated by all, but especially by Mary. In memory of not only Clarence, but all NAPHers who have gone on and are in rest and peace now.

As MI Area 1st Vice President and as National Director, this is my tribute to Clarence.

God Bless you Clarence Averill and thank you.

Gerri Meadows
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