Allen Bills Wilson was born November 25, 1957 to Elmo and Ruby Wilson in Payson, Utah. It is with a broken heart that we announce he passed away suddenly on March 12, 2022 with his loving wife by his side.
Allen was the life of the party from the minute he was born. After losing his father at the young age of eight, he made it his mission to give his mother a run for her money. He enjoyed tormenting police officers on his dirt bike, lighting firecrackers at the band concert, rolling burning tires down main street, sneaking his mom’s car, shaving a “P” in his tiny head to support his football team, badgering his siblings, among many other outrageous activities.
Allen was a competitive teenager. In high school he lettered in all seven sports. Luckily, he won his tennis match due to his opponent not showing up! He lived life to the fullest and took advantage of any opportunity to have fun!
The true love of his life was his high school sweetheart, Lori Menlove, whom he married on May 20, 1977. They were later sealed on July 27, 1991 in the Manti temple.
He worked for the Union Pacific Railroad for 20 years and then worked with his mentor to start a signal company. He worked tirelessly to grow MJG into the biggest “little” company anyone had ever seen. He retired five years ago and has spent his time traveling with friends and family, fishing with the grandkids at Strawberry Reservoir, and of course, watching the beautiful sunsets in Florida. He was happiest when he was near water, especially if he was accompanied by family. It’s no surprise that Florida is where his adventure-filled life came to a close.
He proudly taught his kids and grandchildren the art of swearing, diving, hat making, boating, karaoke, rocking socks with sandals, fixing anything with gorilla tape, but most importantly the art of loving and giving. Al was the most generous, hardheaded man we knew. He would give all he had to someone in need.
Allen left behind his wife, Lori Wilson; his son, Marshall (Sabrina) Wilson; his daughter, Neeley (Ryan) Kay; and his grandchildren, Wylie, Callin, Davin, Tripp, Piper, and Creed. He is survived by all seven of his siblings and his in-laws, Lois and Robert Menlove. He was preceded by his parents, Elmo and Ruby Wilson, nieces and nephews, and his best friend, Gerry McKenna.
There will be a visitation Sunday, March 20, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.at Walker Funeral Home (587 South 100 West, Payson, Utah). A funeral service will be held Monday, March 21, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS church (608 West 1400 South, Payson, Utah). There will be a visitation at the church prior to the funeral from 9:45-10:45 a.m. Interment will be in the Payson City Cemetery following the funeral.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of our generous husband and father, please do a kind deed for someone.
The funeral service will be streamed live. Please return to Al’s memorial page on March 21, 2022 prior to 11:00 a.m. and click on the link below.
23 Condolences for Allen Bills Wilson
Condolences(23)
Roseann says
March 16, 2022 at 3:36 pmAl Wilson is one of the best people I have had the privilege of meeting. I have seen his kindness and wanting to help people for as long as I have known him. Al was a very busy person but always took the time for you and always made sure you were alright. He will always have a place in my heart and I hope I can become all the person he was. I will miss you Big Al and thank you for teaching me the kindness and love that you did.
Clayton Gilliland says
March 16, 2022 at 4:13 pmBig Al was always smiling just like that! They say you don’t remember what people say, you remember how they made you feel. Al made me feel like he had my back at work and personally. We enjoyed endless motorhead banter but it felt like it was all under a banner of a brotherly bond. I loved to make him chuckle by pulling the trigger on whatever throttle was in my hand! I hope he knew he was like a father to me. We love you Big Al! RIP, love and comfort to the family.
Rick Perry says
March 16, 2022 at 4:22 pmHe was a great and kind man. He always lit up the room whenever he was in it with that huge smile he always had on his face. Just seeing him always made the day better.
Dean Rieger says
March 16, 2022 at 4:53 pmI will never forget when I met Big Al, he and Gerry convinced me to go deep sea fishing in Cancun back in 2011, and I spent the majority of those 6 or 7 hours discovering my motion sickness over the side of that boat. Thankfully, I have a picture to immortalize my experience, in the form of Big Al leaning over with a huge smile and a thumbs up while I contemplated my life choices off the side of that boat.
Little did I know, Al took the same exact picture the day before, on a snorkling excursion, in front of my Dad who was also contemplating his life choices over the side of the boat. We, the Brothers Chum, will always remember Big Al for his infectious smile, and his friendship, among so many other things. Rest in peace.
Jacoby Lloyd says
March 16, 2022 at 6:38 pmBig Al was a great guy and giving. He got me my start in the railroad industry, just out of highschool he hired me at MJG. I remember he was big on having your Leatherman couldn’t be a knock off we finished a job early so everyone was getting a bonus. He told me Lloyd I’ll give you a Leatherman or your bonus witch do you want? I picked the Leatherman to get him off my butt. But being the guy he was he gave me both! We’ll miss you big Al!
Johnny Chavez says
March 16, 2022 at 6:13 pmI appreciate Big AL for being a great leader and having a big heart. I was all alone in Utah working on my first big project along side MJG years ago and my family was living with me for the duration of the project.
All work aside, there was a huge windstorm that blew the roof off my rental a month before the birth of my daughter. I didn’t have family in Utah and I had to relocate as fast as possible. Big AL allowed me to use his equipment and his guys generously volunteered their time to help me relocate just in time for my baby girls arrival. This may have not been a big deal to him, however for me it was a life changing moment. Forever in our hearts.
Mike Sears says
March 19, 2022 at 1:34 amI first met Al at my mom and Gerry’s wedding reception in Ontario when we were tasked to shuttle people by boat to the property. Al drove the boat and I served sangria, which ironically started our relationship off with two things we would later continue to bond over… drinks and boats.
Over the past several years we have grown closer and closer with him spending more time in Florida, and enjoying several meals, drinks and boat rides together. He made everyone feel at home around him including my two little girls who absolutely loved being around “Big Al”.
Al’s generosity was second to none. He and Lori dropped everything to support our family when we lost his partner in crime last April. He has since been there for me any time I needed someone to talk to about Gerry, life or the boat business.
Last month, he and Lori went out of their way to look after me and some friends while we’re in Cape Coral on a golf trip, driving us to and from the airport, having us for dinner and hanging out with us on the boat. He welcomed in my friends like he had known them for years and would not take no for answer when we said we could Uber or order in our own dinner.
Allie and I were very much looking forward to seeing him when we arrived in Florida last week, but my last memory with him is right where it started, on a boat enjoying a drink cruising around the Florida canals.
I will miss you always buddy, but I know you are with Gerry looking down on us, giving heaven some hell.
Bea Rieger says
March 16, 2022 at 9:46 pmFrom your infectious smile to your unwavering generosity, Al, you exemplified the meaning of life through your endless thoughtfulness and unconditional love you so freely gave to each and every one of us. Your and Gerry’s approach to building a successful company started with building a family first, knowing with that foundation, everything else would naturally fall into place. We will continue your legacy of paying it forward as you have taught us well. And while it is heart wrenching you are gone too soon, we will find comfort in knowing you and your partner in crime are together once again. I raise my glass to the Greats, thank you for shaping my life in ways I’ve come to understand and for continuing to carry me in those moments yet to come.
Kristie says
March 21, 2022 at 12:30 amLori and family.. so sorry for your loss.. Everyone loved Al.. You guys were so good to Marc when him and Marshal hung out in high school!! My heartbreaks for all of you!! Your in my thoughts and prayers….
Dave Makin says
March 17, 2022 at 10:05 pmNeeley, so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. I always loved and looked up to my dad but did not realize the love that dad’s feel for their children until I became a father. I sure your dad loves his children and grandchildren so much.
Randy Brundridge says
March 18, 2022 at 12:13 amThe sadness of Al’s passing is only less due to the wonderful memories that will forever bring a smile to my face and laughter to any conversation about this awesome guy. Thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.
Terry Jackson says
March 18, 2022 at 1:30 amMy initial introduction to Al was over 25 years ago. I was doing a light rail project in Denver, when I ran short of material. It was suggested that I reach out to Al at MJG, Al didn’t know me or anything about me, and I didn’t know Al. I called him. He asked what I needed and without any hesitation, shipped some fairly expensive items to me, no questions asked. He was one of the most generous and trusting person I have ever known, I will always cherish my time being around him.
To his whole family, your all in my prayers.
Bobby Hammond says
March 18, 2022 at 2:41 pmI met Big Al over 20 years ago. From day one he always treated me with respect and friendship. Looking back over the years, I see that everyone Al met, he treated the same way. His heart was bigger than the man himself. He would always make people laugh, give you anything he could, and if he didn’t have it, it would find it. Over the years I was lucky enough to stay in contact, become a friend. He would always ask about my family, how my girls were doing, which meant a lot. There have been times where he would grab me by my neck, bring me close and ask “really man how you doin” I loved that, I will miss not listening to stories, the laughs and the friendship. He had a way about him, he wanted to see you grow, laugh, have fun and succeed in anything you did. There are very few people that come into your life that you can count on, Big Al was one. He touched so many people, and the man was truly respected, for the person he is. Everyone knows Big Al. To the Wilson family, you have a whole world out here with you, your “other” family is and will always be here for you. We all love that man, and I know he is looking down wrapping his arms all of us. I will miss that smile, I will miss how he lifts the room when he walked it, I will miss that man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. To Big AL, love you sir
JT Green says
March 18, 2022 at 10:01 pmThere are few people who knew Al that don’t have a start to a story that begins with “Remember when Al . . . “ Sometimes that story ended in laughter, and sometimes it ended in love or gratitude, and sometimes it ended in oh $%^&. I’m not gonna lie, I had some oh $%^& moments with Al, and those were life lessons that will not be soon forgotten. The good part is that in time, I realized that those moments were comic relief for others – primarily the Fab-5. So, I have that going for me as an Al Wilson bonus. Free tip: Do NOT shut down UPRR’s main #1 and #2 tracks, and especially don’t do it at the same time. For the record, it wasn’t that bad. What was bad, however, was having to call Al and tell him I just shut down UPRR’s railroad. I’ll have you know that I left him absolutely speechless for about 23 seconds. That could be a new record. But I broke that pending speechless record after I answered his first question: “How long was it shut down?” I’m pretty sure I hold the all-time record after I replied, because his silence was measured in minutes.
Yet the most important “Remember when Al” moment for me was on my darkest day. Al handed me a lifeline. An opportunity that can’t be measured or quantified. Al put his own reputation on the line; he vouched for me and that prospect allowed me to return to the Intermountain West and support my wife’s cancer treatment. He brought me on at MJG. The words “thank you” never seem to be enough, but those two words were the only things Al would accept. Al’s charity and compassion were unrivaled. Big man, bigger heart.
I know many of you will be shocked to hear that Al was a micromanager to the Nth degree. He may have had a dash of stubborn sprinkled in there too (wait, I better look over my shoulder before saying these things – flying Al Wilson bear paws and all – some people reading this know what those are). Anyway, it took me a little while to understand and appreciate his motives. Looking back, I can acknowledge how passionate he was about building his brand MJG. The Fab-5 and others that were blessed to be a part of Al’s journey are products of his dedication to detail. I use a phrase to help hold myself accountable in our industry. I ask myself: Is this MJG Grade? If it isn’t perfect, it isn’t MJG Grade.
Al, I will miss our little one on one meetings at the Cracker Barrel. Not for the food, but for your company. He would ask about my life, how things were progressing, how he could help. With each visit, it was a reminder that I was with someone who held a genuine interest in me and my family. I wasn’t a number. I wasn’t just an employee. Each visit now a keepsake of sorts. An hour of unfiltered Al Wilson. Priceless. That is the testament to Al’s legacy. He created a gigantic extended family. Al was a lightning rod for so many people, and a profound influence on the person I am today. Thank you for sharing your family and making me a part of your MJG one.
I will miss: the firm grip of your handshake; your bear hugs; your wit; your humor; your laugh; your advice and counsel; your friendship; your example; your selflessness; and I guess I will miss those oh $%^& moments too. They are all Al Wilson. Al stands for A legend.
Al, I don’t know where you are right now, but I do know you already own the place.
Dan Meservey says
March 20, 2022 at 3:38 amI first met Al Wilson about 16 years ago. He and his “partner in crime” Gerry McKenna needed someone to help with their first big project together, and Gerry brought me to Utah to meet Al and the team. I don’t remember exactly what Al said to me that day, but what I heard was something like “I guess you’ll do”, followed by “don’t mess this up”. It must have worked out OK because I had the honor of working with Al more or less continuously for many years on several projects. In those days, we talked nearly every week and sometimes every day when there was a lot going on, and I will always consider him a great mentor.
I could write for hours about Al’s good traits, but here’s one that stands out for me: Al always did what was right no matter the situation. There was simply no question of compromising on quality, safety, or meeting customer needs. It was reassuring to know that Al would back up our team with the strength of his personal convictions, and he would always know what to do in difficult situations.
One of my favorite Big Al stories took place while we were creating a quote for a fairly large signaling job, and we were under the gun to get it done quickly. Al met with me at his hotel, and he worked out his part right then and there in about an hour. He handed me his seven-figure estimate, written by hand on a scrap of hotel stationery, complete with torn edge. (Who needs bar napkins anyway?) Appearances didn’t matter… you knew that if Al said it or wrote it, you could count on it. And of course, the job was done well and Al’s figures proved to be accurate and fair. Mr. Al Wilson was a very smart man, and he made everyone around him smarter and better. I don’t keep much in the way of paper files, but I’m pretty sure that scrap of paper is safely tucked away and I hope to find it again someday.
As Al began to spend less time at work and more time in Florida (or wherever he wanted!), we naturally didn’t talk nearly as often, so I looked forward to every opportunity to catch up. Our talks became less about work and more about our families and about life in general. Al loved to talk about his family and especially his grandkids, and he was so proud of them. As others have said, Al always asked how I was doing, and he wasn’t just being polite… it was clear that he really wanted to know.
My last communication from Al was typical for him… generous and thoughtful. Last Christmas Eve morning, he texted me as he surely did with so many others, wishing me and my family “a wonderful Christmas and very happy New Year”. He offered some more personal thoughts as well. You can bet that I’m hanging on to this message.
We miss you, Al! You’re one of a kind.
Judi says
March 20, 2022 at 3:19 pmGenerous to a fault, grateful for family, friends and his wonderful life and career, and genuine- truly caring about people! That’s how I will always remember Al! Over the years we made wonderful memories with Al and Lori, and we were blessed to call them our best friends! Rarely did Gerry and Al leave each other’s company, or end a call without the words, “I love you, Bud!” More recently Al put his love into action and supported and guided me through rough waters. Three things he repeated, “Find the silver lining!” “You don’t have to eat the whole enchilada!” And most importantly, “We love you, we’re here for you always!”
Lori, I love you, and I’m here for you always! And Al, I love you, bud!
Ray & Carol Haydaman says
March 20, 2022 at 10:20 pmIt was through business with Gerry Mckenna and wife Judi that Ray and I were introduced to Big Al and his wife Lori. Along with Roger and Kay Novak we formed a close friendship of 4 couples with common goals of travelling together. The wonderfully caring and loving qualities Big Al had for life and people is evident in all the tributes we read today. It is difficult to say Bon Voyage Big Al but we all have learned many life lessons from you even in our latter years. We will all continue to tell stories and relive memories of our times spent with you. Your time here on earth was not spent unwisely as a son, brother, husband, father, father-in-law, grand-father, uncle, mentor, neighbour and friend. You will always be missed but never forgotten. Rest In Peace Big Al.
Mary Gilman says
March 21, 2022 at 12:58 amI met big Al in the past year. I always heard what a caring, kind & loving man he was. I know that he & Lori were Gerry & Judi’s best friends. Judi has repeated Al’s words many times.. “ you’ve got to find the silver lining”. From everything I’ve heard, he gave from his heart. I know he’s going to be very missed. My condolences, Lori, to you & your family.
Jessica Bergren says
March 21, 2022 at 2:43 amThough we only knew Al for a short time, the qualities others have described about him all ring true from the very first meeting. Al was immediately welcoming and friendly, opening his Florida home to us. Playing pranks with the pool lights and joking around about minivans- we felt like old friends. We are thankful to have met Al, and for the steady presence and support he was for our family and mother in our own loss. What a legacy he has left behind in the hearts he has touched and lives he has inspired!
Bix Bigler says
March 21, 2022 at 6:36 pmI went to high school with Al, and boy, do I have some stories from those days, some probably better left untold. I moved to Payson in 9th grade and Al was one of the first persons to welcome me into the class. I hadn’t seen or talked to Al in well over 20 years, and that is truly my loss. Like everyone, I remember Al as one of the most likable, generous and coolest guys ever. My condolences to his family.
Roger and Kay Novak says
March 21, 2022 at 6:47 pmLori, Neeley and Marshall, with sadly having to view our wonderful friend Al’s service online instead of there in person, you all certainly gave him a wonderful send-off. Lori and Al welcomed us into the “Gerry and Judi group” when we first met at the jazz fest on Catalina Island! Of course, they took us under their wing(s) immediately….so welcoming and FUN! There was no stopping future fun and travel, which also included our dear friends Carol and Ray Haydaman. We gave this group of friends a title: “The Railroaders”! Let’s not put off phone calls, texts, visits; Al’s recent message to Roger (because we couldn’t travel to Florida as promised) was “We have much time in the future to get together somewhere somehow someway.” And of course he ended the text message with “Love you guys”. Forever in our hearts Big Al…….
Casey Elmer says
March 22, 2022 at 3:25 amBig Al was the greatest football coach I could have ever asked for. He taught me how to be a good leader on the field and in life. He coached us hard but it always came from a place of love. I will always remember seeing him at car shows well after my playing days and he always had a big bear hug to give.
He will be greatly missed. Prayers for the family at this time.
Kitzey Lerwill says
April 11, 2022 at 3:50 pmAl was an incredible man! In the short few years we have known him he left a HUGE impact in our lives. His generosity, his fun laugh and his huge smile will never be forgotten.
He welcomed us to his Florida home on a couple of different occasions and we made wonderful memories there. On one of our trips he hired a captain to drive us around on his beautiful yacht. Captain Dave took us to Cabbage Key, an island you can only get to by boat. As we pulled in everyone out by the dock started taking our picture and videoing us as if we were celebrities. Little did they know we were just a bunch of small town folks having a great time. We all laughed about it as we got off the boat to go have lunch.
We enjoyed many other good times with Al including pumpkin carving, driving around in his old cars and BBQ’s. He will truly be missed.
Lori. Neeley and Marshall (and families) we love you guys and will continue to keep you in our thoughts.
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