It is a rare occasion to be able to participate in the birthday celebration of a brand new nonagenarian. But that's exactly what occurred on a frigid winter evening after church. We had gathered together at the home of our beloved friend, Sid Foulger, who would soon turn 90 later this week. At around 5pm, as people were arriving, Sidney Tan first favored the audience with the “Entertainer” on the grand piano. Then a quartet (Megan Tsai on the harp, Emerald on the electronic piano, Melinda on the flute, and Joshua on the clarinet) played “Danny Boy,” one of Brother Foulger’s favorite songs. After a blessing on the food by Brother Sy Tan, everyone had an opportunity to eat the delicious food, which included noodles and spicy noodles, croissant hot dogs, sub sandwiches, Chinese soup, fish, and almond tofu cocktail. We gathered back in the living room with the fire glowing with warmth in the hearth. Sister Florence Tung, Brother Da Zhao, Sister Peifang Chen Zhong, and Sister Betty Azucena shared their personal words of gratitude and love and admiration for Brother Foulger. At Sister Tung’s invitation, Brother Foulger stood up to sing a cheer song from one of his alma maters. Elder Kerby then sang a stirring rendition of “Near, My God to Thee,” accompanied by Joshua Tsai. After Benjamin Tsai read a letter for Brother Foulger sent by Wei, Eva, Sydney, and Mason Chuang, he presented the letter to Brother Foulger and also thanked Brother Foulger for his wonderful example and service. Sister Ann Yu then sang “How Great Thou Art.” Brother Foulger shared with us his testimony and thoughts about serving in the branch. In conclusion, we sang “Love One Another,” one of Brother Foulger's favorite hymns. Brother Frank Chow pronounced the benediction and blessing on the dessert. Immediately afterwards, as everything began singing "Happy Birthday," they rolled out the beautiful birthday cake made by Sister Azucena’s sister.
It has been a great honor to have been associated with Brother Foulger, a man of great accomplishments and a great heart. His amazing deeds, told and untold, have made a great impression upon all of us. His resume includes, just to name a few things, the building of the Washington DC Temple, serving as the second branch president of the Montgomery Chinese Branch, and building a great posterity of 48 grandchildren and over 75 great-grandchildren and counting. But more than these wonderful great acts, the small instances of helping countless individuals and families in need was a constant hallmark of his great love and charity towards all. He taught through word and deed. We love him for the great legacy he has left for his family and his friends. Thank you, Brother Foulger, and Happy 90th Birthday!
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