Few Dry Eyes At Memorial In Lockwood Valley

  • Cowboy poet Lefty Ayers (left) read his poem ?A New Day? at the memorial service for Lockwood Valley?s Dale Brouse (inset) who died June 27 in an accidental house fire at his
?D Bar B? Ranch. No Ventura County Fire engine was in the area to respond. Kern County firefighters from Frazier Park fought the early morning blaze. With her chin held high, Dale Brouse?s sister Betty Husmann (right) is surrounded by family, listening to others relating stories of how much they cared for, and will dearly miss, her brother.

    Cowboy poet Lefty Ayers (left) read his poem ?A New Day? at the memorial service for Lockwood Valley?s Dale Brouse (inset) who died June 27 in an accidental house fire at his ?D Bar B? Ranch. No Ventura County Fire engine was in the area to respond. Kern County firefighters from Frazier Park fought the early morning blaze. With her chin held high, Dale Brouse?s sister Betty Husmann (right) is surrounded by family, listening to others relating stories of how much they cared for, and will dearly miss, her brother.

By Cat Buckles

The “D Bar B” Ranch in Lockwood Valley welcomed 41 people on Sunday afternoon, Aug. 17. Neighbors, friends and family gathered to remember Dale Brouse, a 40-year resident, who died during an accidental house fire June 27.

Beneath the branches of an enormous tree shading the barn and gravel drive, cowboy poet Lefty Ayers invited all to share their favorite stories.

Betty Husmann read a hand-written recollection of her younger brother’s life.

She was followed by another nine speakers—each relating a fond memory of how Dale touched each of their lives.

Patty Wallace, who organized the memorial, read messages sent by those unable to attend.

Ayers closed by reading his poem, “A New Day,” followed by words of spiritual guidance remarking how special each day is.

During the final prayer, a strong wind rose and rattled the branches above, causing many to remark how “Dale must be watching.”

Following the memorial, the Wallaces graciously hosted a barbecue reception at their home.

This is part of the August 22, 2008 online edition of The Mountain Enterprise.

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