By Ron Holt

Many of you have enjoyed reading my Dads articles over the years.  Writing was the joyful outflow of spending time pouring over the scriptures and preparing his heart to give you, his readers, something of substance that would bless and encourage you.

It is with mixed emotions of sadness and joy that I let you know our beloved Father has passed away and is now in the presence of our Lord.  After experiencing a fall a few months ago, he continued to battle health issues and then finally succumbed to what all of us will face one day.

The promise in scripture is now my Dads reward, “Now there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved Christs’ appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8)

Our Dad was many things to many people. He was a pastor and teacher for 70 years, a devout man of prayer who studied God’s word diligently.  A counselor and trusted listener for many inmates in prison; a safe place for many, a true and abiding friend.  We especially prized the fact that he was a faithful husband who loved and cherished our mother for 67 years. He wrote several books and many songs that now preserve the wisdom and insights that he gained in his lifetime and walk with the Lord. Most distinctly, a student throughout life who had an insatiable hunger to communicate God’s message of hope and love.

Personally, my three brothers, two sisters and I had the privilege of calling him, Dad.  All of us genuinely love and respect him as a man of integrity who was true to his word.  His persistent diligence placed in us the “never quit” attitude.  He was always honest and respectful of our opinions and gave us space to grow as adults; teaching us to value the beliefs and views of others while not compromising our own. But the greatest gift our father gave was to show us the way to Christ.

We would love for you to join us at our “Celebration of Life” service that will be taking place on December 10th, where we will honor our father with songs, telling funny stories, remembering childhood experiences and sharing our hearts.  It will be a wonderful time of celebration.  Details regarding the time and place will be coming soon.

 

In His Service,

Ron Holt