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Arthur and Lancelot proclaim Wilfred’s role as Camelot’s Royal Gamekeeper.
In July 2003, family and friends of Bill Van Gieson gathered for a special Memorial Service to honor his memory. Among them were many Renaissance friends from our land and other realms besides. On behalf of the Kingdom, Andrew Parks spoke a few words about his dear friend.
Bill Van Gieson was a great man, a wonderful husband and father to his family, and a soul who was concerned with those in need of help. I knew him first, like many others, as Wilfred of Warren, an enthusiastic supporter of the Kingdoms of Somerset and Camelot. He was the realm’s most devoted citizen, frequently seen crying out against the outrages of the Saxon armies with upraised fist, or cheering on King Roland in his bid for victory against impossible odds. Wilfred’s colorful garb, his strong defiance against the enemies of Camelot, his smiling face every morning at the Kingdom’s opening—these are just a few of the many memories of my friend that I shall always treasure.
Wilfred smiled each and every morning during the Kingdom’s opening.
The Mighty Axe Thrower!
But Bill was more than just Wilfred the Gamekeeper of Camelot. He was one who also cared for others, such as the “high risk” kids in his Drug & Alcohol Prevention Program. He was also a close friend and confidante, one who always offered me sage advice and assistance during those times when the Kingdom was beset by troubles from the real world, not just the Enchanted Forest. Bill is one whose loss will always be painful, as much as his presence was always a comfort.
But we do have one small comfort now, a secure knowledge that
Bill Van Gieson and his colorful alter ego Wilfred of Warren will
always be with us, watching down and wishing his Kingdom the best. We
will continue to hear his voice cheering our knights to victory, and
feel his warmth as he stands there with us, eternally smiling on
opening day.
Wilfred of Warren never let King Arthur knight him, or make him a member of royalty. And I’ll continue to respect his wishes, because of course it was always in fun. But the great man who was Bill Van Gieson will always be a member of Camelot’s highest council, and his spirit will continue to light the Kingdom during times of darkness, imagined or real. Thanks Bill—and Wilfred of Warren—for always providing us with your shining example, your timely wisdom, and your eternal smile.
Wilfred
Van Gieson
1935–2003