Benefit to raise funds for assistant fire chief
Prospect would not be the same without Ken Wilson, said Greg Parker, captain and vice president of Prospect Volunteer Fire Department.
Wilson, 51, has worked in the department for over 33 years and was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Just two months ago, Parker was best man at Wilson’s wedding.
Words cannot describe how Wilson’s family and friends are feeling right following his diagnosis, Parker said. He described Wilson as generous, kind and “the life of the party,” with a fun sense of humor.
Together with the fire department, Parker is helping to organize a spaghetti dinner fundraiser on Nov. 4 to benefit Wilson and his family.
“There is not a single individual who has not offered their help in some way shape or form,” Parker said. “The amount of people reaching out to help, donate and give monetary donations to help cover costs has really shown what an amazing group of people our community and surrounding areas have. We are grateful for all the support.”
Wilson and Parker met eight years ago when Parker joined the fire department. Wilson quickly became one of his best friends, he said.
“This is a complete shock to everybody,” Parker said of the diagnosis. “How can this happen to someone who dedicated the majority of their life to helping others? It’s just awful.”
“(Wilson) has dedicated over 33 years of his life to his community,” Parker said. “Whether it was in the middle of the day or middle of the night, he dropped what he was doing and he was there to help people in need. He has put his life on the line to help total strangers.”
Born in Altoona, Parker said Wilson “has practically spent his whole life in Prospect.” His impact on the community as part of the fire department is undeniable, as are his friendships.
“I just remember getting calls at the fire department, ones that honestly scare you, make you unsure of what to do first, and just give you a bad gut feeling, but then seeing his name pop up on the screen and thinking ‘It’s OK … Ken’s coming,’” Parker said. “He always gave off a sense of security during hard times.”
The raffle and dinner benefit will take place from noon to 8 p.m. Nov. 4, at the Prospect-Franklin Township VFD fire hall, 373 Main St. Raffle tickets will be sold leading up to the event, with the winner being announced on the day of the benefit.
Tickets can be purchased from local fire department members and family.
On the day of the event, there will be multiple raffle baskets for a silent auction donated by individuals, businesses and fire departments.
More information can be found on the Prospect-Franklin Township VFD Facebook page. For questions on how to buy tickets or donate, message the department on Facebook or text Jessica Parker at 724-968-6526.
