Heart Partners
A Heart-to-Heart: KEN WALLICK
What contribution(s) did you give to Olivia's House?
I bequeathed my parent's home to Olivia's House after my mother passed away in 2001.
How did that gift come about?
Years earlier, when I suggested that mother prepare her estate plan; I consulted with my attorney. He suggested that since I had already acquired my own estate, perhaps we should "skip a generation" and bequeath all of my mother's assets to my daughter. My father died years earlier in 1972. When I presented this idea to my mother, she said, "That sounds wonderful except for one thing. Your father and I always wanted you to have our home." I told her I would be happy to adhere to her wishes. And that's what we did.
What lead to your decision to help Olivia's House?
After I settled mother's estate, I decided that I would like to contribute our home to a charity that would benefit children in some unique way. During this time frame while playing racquetball, a group of ladies were soliciting funds for a new charity called, "Olivia's House". After a brief explanation regarding this new charity I became interested and wanted additional information.
Mrs. Brenda Kern suggested that I meet with Mrs. Leslie Delp (an angel in disguise), founder and executive director there. During my first meeting with Leslie, I knew that I had found the special charity - a beautiful and perfect way to honor my mother and dad.
Being retired, what does a typical day include?
Every morning I go the YMCA to exercise, swim and read all of the morning newspapers, especially the obituaries to make sure I'm still vertical and OK. I continue my hobbies of teaching driver's safety education classes, golf and reading.
Who are your heroes?
My greatest heroes are every serviceman and woman who in the past, present and future serve our country.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
Many people are not aware that at the age of 17, I volunteered to serve in the U.S. Navy Air Corps during World War II.
Describe an excellent vacation for you?
After traveling most of the United States, Europe, Mexico and Central America, I am now content with beautiful beaches, fine food, and interesting books.
What can always be found in your refrigerator?
Milk, orange juice, and fresh fruit. That's about it. I do not cook. I go out for dinner. Most of my favorite restaurants are out of town. I go as far as Harrisburg, Gettysburg, Lancaster, or Baltimore.
What TV shows did you watch when you were younger?
I go back to the time of radio programs. TV was only available in the late 40's.
Being so successful with your career, are there any unfulfilled ambitions of yours?
I feel pleased, content and satisfied with my present activities and my station in life.
How would you define success?
Success begins with the drive that motivates your desire to fulfill your ambitions and achieve your goals.
What was your proudest accomplishment?
I am grateful that I was able to be successful in many facets of my vocation and that my parents were proud of me.
How do you want to be remembered?
I have been blessed and granted the gift of faith and have accepted that gift. I would like to be remembered as the loving son of my father, Kenneth M. and my mother, Abbie W. Wallick.
(Interview conducted and profile written by Steven M. Nesbit)
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