We would like to thank all of you for coming to share in the celebration of Brock's life. Our family wants to remember the happy times and celebrate the memories we have of Brock. Brock's life was cut short by a lengthy illness, but prior to his illness he had lived a happy and productive life with many blessings.

We want to keep today informal because that is what Brock would want. He wouldn't want us making a big deal about him. Honestly, right now he would probably be giving me the thumb motion to get this over like he did the day before he died. I was in my nurse and mother mode and trying to "help" him to feel better, but really I was annoying him (which honestly I seemed to be able to do easily). So, even though it was becoming harder for him to speak he gave me the "thumb" to get out and leave him alone. Even to the end of his life he had a sense of humor.

Brock had a great sense of humor. He was quick witted and was always coming up with something funny to say. Sometimes it was just his expressions or gestures he would make….and well sometimes he didn't always use tact! However, he had the ability to make you laugh….even at yourself.

It may come as a surprise to you that Brock could be very stubborn. If he was determined about something he could find a way to get it or get someone to do it for him. Last summer my husband and I were taking Brock to the horse races to see dad's horse's race. Brock always enjoyed the races. This was during a time when he was very weak and had been staying with Mom. When we pulled up to the building I asked him if he wanted me to go get a wheelchair for him and he said "NO" he could walk. He and I started walking and it was all I could do to stay up with him. He even got me in for free that day by using his persuasive abilities. He had a good day at the races even though it wore him out.

We all have different memories of Brock which are the things we hold on to dearly and recall them during those times when we are missing him. Some of the memories I have are him enjoying some of his favorite things in life such as watching the Denver Broncos, going to the horse races, watching his nieces and nephews in sporting events and growing up, music especially Rock, cars and especially his 1978 Camaro.

Mom and dad, I want you to know that you did everything parents could do for Brock, but the greatest thing you did for him was the unconditional love you gave him. Parents aren't supposed to have to bury their children, but this was something out of your control. I know that Brock loved you both very much.

I found a poem I would like to read titled

'He is Gone'

You can shed tears that he is gone
Or you can smile because he has lived

You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left

Your heart can be empty because you can't see him
Or you can be full of the love that you shared

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday

You can remember him and only that he is gone
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

Something that I like to remember is that life is not measured by the breaths you take…..but the moments that take your breath away. I'm glad that Brock had moments that took his breath away!

We are going to miss you dear brother.

Brock Allen Alfrey was born May 13, 1962, to Vance Lee Alfrey and Vernell Daly Alfrey, in Lamar Co. He departed this life Sunday, March 11, 2012, at his mother's home, surrounded by his loving family.

Brock grew up in Vilas on the family farm. He attended Vilas schools until his junior year then moved to Walsh were he graduated in 1980. He attended collage for a year at Lamar Community College, then transferred to the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. He later graduated from Denver Technical University with honors. He married Cindy Stafford Sept 3, 1988. They were married until 2001.

Brocks greatest pleasures were spending time with his family and friends and watching his nieces and nephews in their various activities. He was a Denver Bronco fan whether they were losing or winning, and loved talking about them. He also enjoyed his racehorses, his boat and jet skies, going to the lake, dancing, going to concerts and, in his youth, driving his 1978 Camero very fast! Even in the most frustrating circumstances he could make us all laugh...His family will miss his quick wit.

He is survived by his mother Vernell Lyddon and Ray Dunn, of Greeley; his father Vance Alfrey and wife Beverly, of Vilas; his sister Michelle Shull and husband Michael , of Garden City KS; sister Stephane Holton of Kersey CO; brother Brent Alfrey of Vilas; Stepbrother Brent Schroeder and wife Coleen of Campo, stepbrother Curtis Schroeder and wife Beki of Vilas, as well as 18 nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Memorials may be made to:

Northern Colorado Hospice in Brock's name.