Saturday, November 10

The weather today was just about as perfect as it could get for the middle of November.  As I get older I find myself thinking I would like to live where the weather would be just like today, every day!  But I like Ohio, despite the gray winters, because there are always those stand out days like today that make us appreciate the good days.  In the song, That's What Faith Can Do by Kutless, there is a line I really like.  "Don't you give up now the sun will soon be shining, You've got to face the clouds to find the silver lining."  When you think about it, those gray or difficult days are what make the sunny, good days so sweet.  Yesterday, a very dear person left this earth to bask in everlasting Son-shine.  A former pastor of our United Methodist Church, Dale Gensler, died after a lengthy illness as a result of a stroke earlier this year.  He was such a special man and was the perfect example of "what would Jesus do?" before it became such a catch phrase.  He ministered to everyone, not just his congregation but to the people, no matter their beliefs, background or social status, never judging, just loving and listening.  He baptized and confirmed both our daughters and came to visit Andy several times after his accident.  When Andy's father died, Rev. Gensler had just became our pastor but he came out and talked with Andy for over an hour.  Andy only went to church if the girls were doing something special or if there was a potluck.  Dale used to kid with us that he would only see Andy if there was food around.  Dale and Barbara attended Sara and Matt's wedding in 2006 which meant so much to our family.  Dale will be missed by his family and friends and the Bichler family.  I imagine that Dale has already found his buddies from the Lamplight and is having a cup of coffee and listening to one of Mac McGuire's stories!  I will remember him with the fondest of memories.

Dale and Barbara at their home in Clayton after his retirement