In Memory of Wendy Marie Sullivan

We're a small group at Al's Vacuum. And when you spend much of your time with someone, over the years a business becomes more like a family. Wendy first came to work with us on a part time basis. She was eighteen years old--bubbly, bright, and frankly just a bit of a stinker. She was about the same age as our daughters. As we watched her blossom into a beautiful young woman, she became more like a daughter and less like an employee.

As Wendy settled in and began working full time, things changed dramatically at the shop. We had been harnessed to an outdated bookkeeping system--and although Wendy had no formal technical training--she helped develop an efficient computerized system for us. She was a vauable member of our team when we were awarded the Bloomington Small Company of the Year.

When a new challenge arose, something unfamiliar to her, she dug her heels in and figured it out. It would be difficult to provide a job description for Wendy. She contributed to our business in so many ways.

Professionally--data entry, accounting, marketing, advertising, sales, and customer service. But most of all she added a sparkle and a dimension to our workplace that only she could bring. How fortunate the person will be who will benefit by her gift of the twinkle in her eye!

She had a delicate, creative side, but don't be fooled by her small stature. She could handle the most ornery of customers--and when you work with a bunch of guys all day--well, whatever teasing she took-she gave back--and more.

And she could handle the horsepower. Who will ever forget her little head barely over the steering wheel of her "Fire Chicken" as she peeled out of the parking lot.

We have received many phone calls from customers, factory reps and countless others whose lives she touched. There are no words to express how deeply she will be missed.

There is an emptiness at Al's Vacuum and in all of our hearts.

- Al and Karen Allstadt, owners Al's Vacuum