Deserving winners at Brown family fundraiser

May 05, 2011

Photo: Steve Lloyd presents his guitar to 8 year old Ethan BrownOver 200 family members, friends and supporters gathered at the Verona Lions hall to offer their support to the children of Roseanne and Greg Brown. Greg, the father of Ethan, Will and Lindsay, and son of Bonnie and Willard Brown, passed away last year in a tragic accident.

The event was spearheaded by Steve and Penny Lloyd, who wanted to hold an event to help raise funds to start an education fund for the three young Brown children. By the end of the evening, which included a silent auction, a meal and top-notch live entertainment by a host of talented performers, over $10,500 was raised. One of the most moving and fitting moments of the evening came towards the end of the evening when Steve Lloyd announced the winner of his cherished autographed guitar, which he raffled off and which alone raised over $4,000 for the cause. The very fitting winner of the cherished guitar was eight-year-old Ethan Brown, eldest son of Roseanne and Greg, who came forward beaming with delight to collect his prize.

Steve Lloyd said later, “It seemed the perfect thing to happen, that young Ethan took home that guitar. The evening couldn't have ended up better than that.” A second surprise followed later in the evening when a last-minute donation, a Daji miniature dirt bike donated by National Small Engines, was raffled off. The winning ticket, which was drawn by young Will Brown, was won by Greg's father Willard. Roseanne Brown was visibly moved by the overwhelming support and generosity of the community and felt the evening was a great representation of everything that Greg held dear. She wished to thank all of the volunteers who helped out and donated their time. “It's truly amazing how much a small community can do for those in need. It makes you feel very good, that's for sure.” Many thanks from the Brown family and the Lloyds to the Verona Lions, all the entertainers, volunteers, donors and the guests who gave their time and energy to make the evening such a memorable one for the entire family.

Anyone still wishing to donate can contact Steve Lloyd at 613-376-7688.