Bob

Some people only knew him as sort of a curmudgeon. He had strong opinions, but he didn't get where he did in business and in life by being wishy-washy. He knew what he thought ought to happen, and didn't mind communicating that to others. But he was always good to us, even when we disagreed.

Bob grew up in the church. He was a P.K., a pastor's kid, and because of that the church was always near and dear to his heart. When we arrived in Portage, Bob and Sarah welcomed us to his home for one of the cottage meetings. That evening, I learned that Bob loved to share stories. It was the longest of all the cottage meetings we attended that fall, because the stories had to be fully told. Many stories, no shortcuts. So it was well past dark when we left his home, and not knowing the area, we got lost. Lost enough we somehow drove up an alley and into someone's yard. I don't think I ever told him that. Eventually, we found our way home.

Bob could be counted on to be in worship every Sunday, wearing a coat and tie as he had been taught. Same seat, same service, every week unless he was out of town. He loved the music of the church, but also let me know my sermons were okay. His faith was very important to him, even though he wasn't always very vocal about it. He preferred to live it as best he knew how.

During my time as his pastor, I helped him say goodbye two very difficult times. The first was when his wife, Sarah, died. We celebrated her life in the sanctuary of the church, and just a few short years later (too short), we did the same for his son, Jim. Bob deflated some when Sarah died, and when Jim died, the grief nearly overwhelmed him. His health did not fare well after those events, and the only explanation I have for his longevity in the face of grief is a combination of faith and stubbornness. Because Bob had both, in spades.

Before we left Portage, our family stopped in the nursing home to see Bob. We had a good conversation, we prayed together, and we expressed mutual appreciation for each other. Because he had always been good to us. As a sort of coda, we got to see him again and visit briefly this past June when we attended his granddaughter's wedding. That was to be the last time we saw him, because this past week, Bob went home to be with Jesus...and his beloved Sarah...and his son Jim.

For the last several years, Bob had seemed a shell of what he used to be. His mind was still sharp, but his body was wearing out. Now, because of the hope of the resurrection and Bob's trust in Jesus, he is once again whole, energetic, and strong. Thanks, Bob, for all you have done...for me and my family...for so many people. You no doubt frustrated a few folks....but you blessed many more. I am glad to have been one of them.