Alfred James Phillips

Illinois was Alfred's place of birth. His mother, Martha, was of German descent and his father, William, immigrated to this great land of opportunity from England. Alfred and his one sister and four brothers were born during or shortly after the 'great depression'. They had little financial wealth, but they experienced the richness of a loving family. That is until the untimely death of his father.

Alfred soon learned that disappointment and failure in one's life can teach and strengthen, even though at the time one often fails to see the value. Because his father was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, the two youngest children still living at home, Alfred and his brother, were sent to live in a group home at Mooseheart. Spending three years in what one could call an orphanage, was an excellent experience for Alfred. He believes that it made him stronger and more compassionate toward parentless children and the people who take care of them. He also believes this has given him some insight when sharing this heartwarming adventure of love and faith.

After graduating from Olivet, in Michigan, Alfred enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was trained as a Hospital Laboratory Technician and then stationed at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama. After his service years, Alfred spent years honing his story telling skills as an information author and marketer in the medical, insurance, investment and hobby fields. He also became a radio personality and tournament bass fisherman. These experiences combined to improve his creative talents as the story developed. And now after years of incubation the story of the 'Roses' is ready to be told.