A word from Willie--

[WILD WILLIE]

Good afternoon everyone.
As you can see, this is my first post. I have been a member, fan, and sponsor of I Fish for many years.
To read some of these things on the ifish pages is to say the least, distressing.
I have spent the last 35 years of my life designing, building, and perfecting what I feel are "Simply The Best" boats available. (Anywhere!)
To have the devotion of each and every fishermen of the Pacific Northwest potentially shattered by a misunderstanding would be a tragedy.
We are very shorthanded this year. Mike Jackson is our only sales person at the show, until Saturday. The other "hats" are a handful of our loyal guides that offered to try to help answer questions. I'm sorry to tell you that trained sales staff they are not, but they are there for us to try their best!
You know, it really breaks my heart to hear this kind of thing. I pray it does not have a long lasting effect on us. We have never sold product by high pressure tactics, nor are we going to start.
Please accept my personal apology if this is mistaken for arrogance.
------------------------

In closing, I'd like to address all of my long time friends and supporters, (I know you are out there!)
The rumors are on their way, so how about taking it straight from the horses mouth?
Seven days ago I had the first seizure of my life. After a rushed trip to the E.R., cat scans and M.R.I., I was given the news no one ever expects to hear. I have a small tumor in my brain, apparently sent there by another small one in my bowel.
I have accepted this news and I am braced and ready for a personal uphill battle. I will win this battle hands down, especially with the help, prayers, and support of my many friends and supporters.
My brain surgery is scheduled for February 15th, and then comes the other end. This will be followed by therapy.
Rest assured this old boy will be around for many years! I only consider this a temporary speed bump, and I have complete and absolute faith in the Lord.
My personal gratitude is extended here once again to all. Thank you for your prayers, support, and understanding.
Please stop by our Willie booth and say hello. We'd love to meet some ifishers--

WILLIE ILLINGWORTH
<*)]}}}>{

[Jennie@ifish]

Dear Willie,
You have the devotion and love of so many, many people!
Thank you for taking a minute to let us know what's happening~!
I'm just in shock. I'm also very certain that many, many people will come from a long ways off to be with you, both in spirit and in person.
I will be saying my prayers for you! You are one tough guy, and we love you!
Jen and Bill

[Pete]

Willie! My thoughts and prayers will be with you during what may be a difficult journey. I hope it is not too very hard. I've been a member of the Willie family since I took delivery of my 16'x54" well over a decade ago. I can't imagine how I'd react to news like you just received ... it seems to me you have held your head high and kept your courage strong. May they stay that way for many years to come!

[Gundog]

Willie,
I met you about 8 or 9 years ago and you have a very good product. I looked for you at the Boat show in January but never saw you there. I would not worry too much you have a very good reputation among NW fisherman. I would have liked to had you spec a boat for me but I have one on order with NR now. I have always thought of you and your boats as a class act.

I did not read down far enought to learn about your illness I hope you are on the mend soon.
Mike

[Riverkeeper]

Willie,

You've got a seat in my boat any day of the week.
Get well quick.

Darian

[reelfine]

Hey Willie-

Although I don't own a Willie, I've fished out of Predator open sled for the last 10 years. Fantastic boat! Good luck and keep building 'em!

[tailchaser]

My father and I still have your original boat from the early 70's when he was the first guide on the rogue to have an aluminum boat and it's still bonking fish. We know you had ties to other companies at that time, but still you were the mastermind behind many successful boat manufacurers out there. Good luck, and sorry to see your first posts here are to defend your honor for such a great boat. Get well soon.

tc

[259]

Willie...I'm very sorry to learn of your medical situation. My daughter Breanne had a cancerous tumor removed from her brain three months ago and is at the begining of her year 1/2 battle with radiation and chemotherapy. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I just want you to know that you are not alone and that you will be in countless prayers.

[Just Fish]

Willie I have floated the klicitat river many times in your boats and find them to be a exelent drifter would buy one in a secound.

[STRIKE ZONE]

Willie drift boats are "Simply the Best".I've had mine for just a year and a half now and love it.Mike Jackson was great to work with from start to finish.Good luck with your up coming operation hope thing's work out fine.Hope to see ya out soon.
Good luck,
STRIKE ZONE

[Lipripper]

I am truly sorry to hear the news of your tumor. I purchased my Predator in April of 2002 after several months of looking at what the various boat manufacturers had to offer. After seeing what mass produced boats looked like I chose to purchase a Willie. Best decision I ever made. Thank you again Willie and I pray for a speedy recovery.

[Brian Brush]

Willie,

Tammie and I wish you the best of luck with your medical issues and hope and pray for a speedy and full recovery.

I also want to thank you for all that you have done for me in the past. I will never forget the feeling I had when I picked up my first driftboat 20 some years ago. As a proud owner 0f 4 Willie Driftboats and 1 Willie Inboard I felt priveleged to get to know you. You are truly a leader in our industry.

Brian Brush

[snit]

Mr. Willie, I've always admired your boats! They're what everbody else compares a brand name too!!!

My good friend Dave Gillikin and my cousin Mike Hodgson (Riverbend Boys) and I all wish you the best!!!! Dave just sold his house in Leavenworth and he'll be a full time resident in Soldotna, and cousin Mike is flying to the North Slope tomorrow to start work (for the winter) in a oil camp. They both send you "best wishes" and they'll see ya in the "Land of the midnight sun"

[Freakwater]

Willie,

I would prefer asking for help rather than high-pressure sales any day. Wouldn't change a thing. Best sled made in my opinion. Good luck with your upcoming surgery.

Freakwater

[myxxolydyan]

Willie,

I recently had my first surgery of my life. I wish you all the luck in the world.

There is a policy Ifish enforces that,

“requires that people be civil, respectful and avoid inflammatory statements”.

“Our objective is to keep the discussion friendly, helpful and welcoming”.

I'm sorry your company has come under such scrutiny. I'm sure your boats are top notch. I hope that Ifish will continue to employ good judgment, and equal prejudice when allowing posts to be left active when people begin their insulting and unwelcome comments. (Unfortunately censorship is necessary)

Good luck with you company and get well soon. I'll release two Steelhead for you this weekend on the Wallowa!

myxx

[FROGGY]

WOW!
I am a proud Willie owner and hope to buy a brand spanking new Raptor from him in several years.
I went to the Willie booth yesterday and found everyone there to be very plesant. Even talked to Tim Juarez who himself is a class act!

Here's a service story for you,... I bought a 93 Predator last year and didnt know the size the gas tank was. Called up Willies, they told me to get the hull# and they would look up in there records and tell me. Got back to me that day, knowing they were not getting a sale of any kind, just giving a second hand Willie owner some help.

Willie... Your in my prayers,
I want to come down and custom order a boat in a couple years.

[Hogmaster]

Thanks, Willie, for clarifying what is going on at the show. And your point is valid. Guides are generally great people, but they aren't necessarily trained salesmen. They are probably hanging with each other as a matter of comfort zone more than anything. It is why I wanted you, or at least someone from your company, to have the opportunity to respond. That's why I forwarded the other thread on to your attention.

Many business owners have been caught in situations where their brand is potentially damaged due to things outside of their control. But whether given the opportunity to set things straight should be the first and most important consideration.

Thanks for that.

It is terrible reading about your personal challenges, but kudos to you for getting in front of a bunch of rumors and wild whispers.

We're all pullin' for you!




PS - Your boats catch fish!



Simply the Best!

[D$_KFalls]

Welcome aboard, Willie. I grew up in the Rogue Valley, and can remember driving by your shop since ... well, since I can remember (I'm 31 years old). I now live in Klamath Falls, and still drive by there every once in a while. A company with staying power like that is definitely doing something right. Keep up the great work, and the fine products.

Darin

[First Light Bite]

Willie, our thoughts will be with you. I seen that other post earlier today and was going to respond but wanted to think about it a little longer so as not apear too negative towards that person. My impresion at the show yesterday was as you said guides are not trained sales staff. However I had a questions about replacing some hatch rivets on my Predator and they were answered very quickly and correctly no problem. If someone needs to be "sold" to own a boat that has been, and remains "SIMPLY THE BEST" then they may need to do a little more homework anyway.
My 94 Predator (Kolers old boat) is still going strong, what a great platform to fish from. Keep up the job you guys do building awsome boats. Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery.

Ralph

another proud member "TEAM WILD WILLIE"

[1eyed]

[/image]

Willie our prayers are with ya and you can come fishing in this great boat anytime.

I have never found your salesmen to be pushy, I was new to the whole jet sled type of boat a few years back and had many questions, your guys were always willing to talk to me on the phone or in person for as long as it would take.

Even when I made several trips to your shop and changed my order about 100 times (add this, delete that, make it longer, etc.) your saleman and work staff were always glad to help me out.

Just remember one thing, this is (Simply the Best :smile: :smileboat I have evr had.

Thanks a bunch and get well soon.

[Shrimp Claw]

I recently bought a Willie drift boat about 2 months ago. I have to say it is a great boat and does exactly what I want it to, not to mention the great price. While buying the boat the salesmen and everyone else down there were terrific. I have also called them several times since I purchased the boat to ask them how they would install several things and various other questions. The people I talked to were always great and told me everything I needed to know. I am sorry to here what is happening and wish you the best of luck with everything. And by the way Willie Boats are, "Simply the Best".

[Straydog]

Will,

As you know, we go wwwaaaayyyyy back and I have never had anything less than admiration for you and your work.

Godspeed to you in your battle. It's time to kick some butt and take some names. Something you have always excelled at!

Know there are a whole lot of So. Oregon river rats pulling for you, buddy.

Straydog

[FishinMission]

"Simply a Class Act", too.



Mark

[Firedog]

Get well Soon Willie!

I also have to say that when I bought my Boat a few years ago. The salesmen were great. Somehow the foot brace got missed when I picked my boat up. Called and they had it up here the next day. Had multiple questions on other things also and my e-mails or phone calls were always answered right away. "Simply the Best"

[T-Jet]

Willie, Here is to you and your health! This is one of your babies! I loved this boat. I sold it for the sled.......worst mistake of my life Its old School. Boat was delivered to Nixons Marine Trey Carskaden did my paperwork!
I have a feeling your as tough as your boats! My prayers are with you!

Todd

[Grantspastor]

I believe your reputation is intact, alive, and well here in Southern Oregon. I've been a drift boater for over 35 years, and have rowed a bunch. I think that your boats ARE the best...even though I don't own one. (My wife thinks I don't need another boat right now). I wouldn't worry about what a few think. Your product is still the standard that they all have to be judged by.

Sorry to hear about your illness. I'll pray for a quick recovery

[Radke]

If your body can muster the strength of your character, I would believe there is little to worry about.

wishing you the best.

[greenbuttskunk]

Willie,
one of the classiest and most professional replys to a distressing issue I have read in a long time. It's apparent
that you care about your company's reputation, and your customers
As for your personal battle. You know you have the thoughts and prayers of many folks would have obvious respect for you. At times like this, make sure you sole focus is on YOU,
boats can wait, your health and well-being cannot.
We'll be looking for the good news update soon.
Respectfully,
Greenbuttskunk

[fishingfirst]

Willie,
I have given serious consideration to your boats. I will be buying in the next year or so, and will give you first shot, a very classy orginization to say the least.

As for the day of your surgery, you will have great success that day......it's my birthday, and it's always been a good day for me!

Scott

[KChookem]

Willie Rocks! (the Man, and his Boats). It's now clear to see why the Customer Service I've received is OUTSTANDING!!!

[Starfish]

Willie-- that's a truly high-class response to this concern and it reinforces my inclination that when I'm ready for a drifter, yours will be the first ones I consider. (And I'm getting closer and closer to shopping for one... don't tell my wife!)

You will be in my prayers for your recovery. Good luck and God Bless.

[Bill Monroe]

Willie

You're a special person. We'll be watching and praying as well.

I've been around long enough to remember the last time you shook off something like this using that, um, "unique" elixir to wash down the medication.

For those who may not realize, just about every modern aluminum boat ever made in Oregon has its roots with Willie. Those builders he didn't train or sell the company to used his lines for the benchmarks...
Beyond that, though, Willie's hand (literally) has been there to support virtually every important fisheries event and fund-raiser I'm aware of...and I'm aware of quite a few after 24 years.

I've got both a Willie Predator and driftboat in my boat alley and whenever I've needed something I've only had to pick up the phone and ask. They get quickly taken care of not because of who the owner is...but because of who the builder was.

You get well by May, Willie...There's a regional outdoor writers meeting down there and Freeman and I will need something to do. I no longer use, umm, "elixir," but we'll spoon feed you your medicine if necessary.

Willy,
I heard about your health problem through your brother-in-Law in KF (known him for 30 years). I hope you have the same recovery I did with my colon cancer. I'll look up Mike when I get to the show.

[HntnFsh]

Willie ,
Our prayers are with you.Hoping all goes well with your surgury.
My wife and her first husband bought your white w/red stripe Predator showboat in 98.They loved the boat but unfortunately he passed away from cancer after only getting a couple years use out of it.My wife kept the Predator,and now fortunately I am a cowowner of an awesome Willie Predator.When they bought that boat it fullfilled a dream he had for a long time.As he knew then.And I know now.Its obvious why Willie is Simply the "Best"
Thanks for an awesome product.And awesome support.
Get well soon.Best wishes,
Rick & Sue Hill

[h20dog]

Dude,
I went to the show and made it a point to find your boats. I would like to apologize for not toweling off my drool that I so carelessly left all over your display models. I presently own another brand of sled but am looking to move into a bigger one and your's are at the top of my list. First cabin all the way. Keep the positive attitude and hang in there

[Joe Schwab]

Willie, Hang in there! I wouldn't get too upset over the comments. I read them and thought back to 2000 show when I went in looking for a Kenai sled with cash in hand. None of the other dealers wanted to talk to me but your guys did and I bought a Predator. Sometimes that stuff just happens. Your fine reputation will win out every time.

Our prayers are with you.

Joe and Evelyn Schwab
Formerly (and still part time) Captain J Charters

[lamiman]

Hi Willie,

I do not know you or own a willie boat but I hope you get well soon. A good friend of mine was diagnossed with a brain tumor several months ago. She is OK and is doing great! I will pray that you are are better and back fishing soon.

Scott M. / Vancouver, WA

[RogueFishr]

Willie,

I wish you the best and know you will come out on top. Willie Boats: Simply The Best

RF

[duckcall]

I own a Willie. It has character and so do you sir. I will be praying for His healing. We have a daughter that went through the same surgery 2 years ago. Doing great!

[Lil' Willie]

I have complete faith in your ability to whup this one, Dad.

It's so touching to see all the support and positive thoughts here. What a great community. Thank you all for your kindness and prayers.

Will

[PapaHog]

Willie I will pray for you and yours as you whup this thing.

ps nice boats

[Freakwater]

Welcome to ifish Lil' Willie!

Freakwater

[Tanner]

Willie,
You are a class act and produce the best drift boat in the industry. (I have a 1999 16 x 54). My prayers are with you.
Keep your head up and have faith.

Tanner

[Bait O' Eggs]

I wish you the best!!

I have never owned "simply the best" but I sure hear a lot of good stuff about them.

[Amahnee]

Wishing you nothing but the best. Glad to have bought and experienced one of your drifters. Keep fighting the good fight, I know you'll win.

[someguy29187]

Willie-

Every time I get into a hogline or sit at the boat ramp I can see your influence on all the other boats around me. You started with Alumaweld and then sold it to make boats custom to what we the fishermen want, so that we got "Simply the Best." To hear that someone would "trash talk" you and your incredible boats saddens me very much considering they probably own a boat that you indirectly created. Altough I do not own a Willie Boat in a way I do considering the builder started out working for you. I wish you the best of luck and my prayers are with you. Remember it just a bump in the road.

Dear Willie,

Jennie, Pete and the Moderators were kind and gracious enough to allow me to add my best wishes from one of your biggest and loyal fans.

My very best to you and our sincere wishes for a speedy and complete recovery. I have never forgotten you for helping me and standing there physically right beside me that day, making sure I got my first Predator delivered before Nixon’s went under.

As you well know, many others were not quite so fortunate and did not have you to personally deliver their boat.

Will think of you every time I'm in the boat and be pullin' hard for you. Been pretty sick myself in recent times, but nothing like you and Jennie have faced and will both overcome.

It's not <font color="blue"> just </font> your boats but <font color="blue"> YOU TOO </font> Willie are simply the best.

Pete took this picture one day at my favorite place on this earth. Everyone else is probably pretty sick of it, but it's one of my favorites and thought you might like it too.



Rick and Linda

[Chris Nordling]

Howdy!

Spent many hours aboard that craft admiring the workmanship involved

Speedy recovery to you Willie.

Chris

[Uncle Milty]

Willie,
I picked up my Willie's drift boat a year ago and absolutely love it. Your accomplishments speak for themselves. We're all pulling for you.

Take care,
-Nick (Uncle Milty)

[fop]

Good luck to you Willie. You can whip it!!!!

We have a Willie Predator we bought new in '93' from you and a 17' Willie Driftboat new in 2002. Love them both and we have had many of my good friends buy the Willie too!

We have always had good help from your guys and I know these two boats we have will last me until I can't row another lick or twist another throttle. Thats why we buy Willie
"Simply the Best".

Couldn't make it to any of the shows this year but always have a good time talking boats and fishing with yer guys there. We always look for the Willie Booth...

Retired in 2004 and your fine boats helped us make a good living from full time guiding since 1981.

Our prayers are for you,

Fred &amp; Monica Pentt

[Dipnet]

Here's wishing you the very best and a speedy recovery. Keep that positive attitude and things will go well for sure. You have a lot of looking after you.

Dipnet :grin:

[Gun Rod Bow]

Mine and my family's prayers will be with you Willie.

I absolutely love my Predator!

I stopped by the booth at the show tonight and was admiring Tim's new drifter in the booth, someone was asking if it was heavy (at 19') and I said I'll bet not...I walked over and grabbed the gunnel and lifted one side clear off the floor. Tim was laughing pretty hard

Lots of folks enjoying the show and your products there

I had a chance to row Travis Moncreif's new drifter a few weeks ago and those big wide drifters are absolutely awesome!

I know your a tough ol' boot and I'd bet my favorite bouncer you'll whip this one.

Thanks for getting on the board!

Psalm 103:3

[eyeFISH]

I too am the proud co-owner of a Predator. As a member of the "Willie Boats" family, I want to wish you "Simply The Best" as you face this illness head-on.

[Walleyed]

On the up side! A real good friend had a tumor in he’s
brain steam and could not have surgery.
All the doctors gave him less then a year and so he
found a doctor in Texas doing an alturnitive drug. After a 13 month battle he has now seen two Christmas’s
that the doctors at Kaiser didn’t think possibly.
He is now tumor free. All the best
Walleyed
I would Be happy to pass on the doctors info my e-mail

[Walleyed]

On the up side! A real good friend had a tumor in he’s
brain steam and could not have surgery.
All the doctors gave him less then a year and so he
found a doctor in Texas doing an alturnitive drug. After a 13 month battle he has now seen two Christmas’s
that the doctors at Kaiser didn’t think possibly.
He is now tumor free. All the best
Walleyed
I would Be happy to pass on the doctors info my e-mail

[Hooked up]

You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

[Grass Hopper]

Willie,
Thanks for fueling the dream all these years. I fished with you on the Chosen with the Duncans back in 1990 and had the opportunity to run one of the first predators. We also did some experimenting on the bottom strakes on the old flattbottoms. Loved your knowledge, appreciated your character. Thanks for the tip at the end of your trip. (kept us guides smilng for a few extra weeks) Sorry I cut you off and roosted you with the old Jack ass lift. I most enjoyed the upriver scouting trip with three engines in the boat. Two for upriver, One for coming back down after you destroy the other two. It was a thrill to be in the presence of a man who doesnt know the meaning of the word no.(to watch willie tie up rigs is a pleasure in itself) I learned a great deal about boating from the knowledge you have given to the industry and make a good living working on, playing in, and selling Aluminum boats!


THANKS WILLIE! YOUR ONE OF A KIND! BEST WISHES!
TOM MATTICE
Dougs Boats
Woodinville, WA.

[baitsauce]

Best of luck sir! I will own one of your boats one day.

[Ceeleekamp]

Willie,

First and Foremost, please get well soon!! Always keep in mind, the fight of the human spirit in both strong and unwavering.

Now, I just took delivery of one a 16' X 54" Drifter and must say that the whole experience from Order to delivery was pleasant experience.. Oh! The first trip on the water was great as well.
Take care and please know that you and yours will be in our thoughts and prayers!
Salmo!

[Chetco]

I purchased a new Willie drift boat this past fall. After spending about a month looking for a quality used boat, I couldn't find one for less than Willie's advertised price. Nick was very helpful in helping me choose the right options for my boat, select a color, etc., despite how busy the showroom was. I was pleased when I returned about three weeks later to check on the progress. Not only did the salesman greet me as I entered (even remembered my name), I was pleasantly surprised to see my boat was ahead of schedule.
The Willie drift boat is by far the best I have ever owned, (I had a Fish Rite and an Alumaweld, both older models and have had two wood drift boats).
If you are shopping for a drift boat, check out Willie's shop in Medford. They will make a boat that is just right for what you want to do.
The price is as good as any of the other companies, but the options, like sliding rod holders, etc. sets Willie apart.
I can't see ever using a drift boat other than a Willie.