Memorials
Reverend Dr. Amos Arthur "Art" Schmidt Jr.
The Rev. Dr. Amos Arthur Schmidt Jr. "Art", a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at 85 on March 8, 2025. Born in 1939 in Parma, Idaho, Art was the third of eight children in the family of Amos and Concordia
Schmidt. Raised in a faith-driven household, Art's early years were shaped by his father's ministry work in Washington and Oregon. The family later settled in Portland, Oregon.
Art's calling to the ministry led him to Concordia Senior College in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, where he studied New Testament Theology and pastoral education. Ordained in 1965 in the Lutheran Church, he dedicated his career to helping those experiencing grief and suffering. Art worked in mission congregations, hospitals, and treatment centers, becoming a respected leader in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). He served as a CPE supervisor at Santa Monica Hospital, Washington State Prison for Women, and St. Joseph Hospital in Tacoma, where he worked for nearly 30 years, deeply impacting many lives.
Art's leadership extended nationally and internationally as he served in roles with the American Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE), including President and Chair of the Ethics Commission. His commitment to ethical care and spiritual guidance earned him the respect of colleagues and students alike.
Art's family was his greatest joy. He was a loving husband to Margaret Ann, father to five children, and grandfather to seven. Together, they enjoyed gardening, hiking, and camping in the Pacific Northwest. Even after retiring in 2008, Art continued to offer guidance and served on various community boards, including Associated Ministries and the Pierce County Ethics Commission. Art was a patron of many small businesses in the Tacoma community and enjoyed getting to know his neighbors. His colleagues, students, and friends will remember his wisdom, kindness, and unconventional wit.
Art is survived by his wife, Margaret Ann; five children, Mark (Lori), Joel (Lisa), Maria (Michael) and their mother Phyllis Brandt, Rebecca (Jeremy), and Elizabeth; and seven grandchildren; Marcus and Myles, Elena, Clara, and Serena, Rachel and Ben. His legacy of love and care will endure through the many lives he touched in his well-lived life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:
Associated Ministries
901 S 13th St
Tacoma, WA 98405
http://weblink.donorperfect.com/AMDonationsSite
Please select Art's name from the memorial box.
Washington National Park Fund
PO Box 2128
Seattle, WA 98111-2128
https://wnpf.org/support-parks/ways-to-give/honor-memorial-gifts/
Memorial Service - Friday, April 25, 2025, at 2 pm
St. Mark’s by the Narrows
6730 N 17th Street
Tacoma, WA 98406
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Reverend Dr. Amos Arthur "Art" Schmidt Jr's Memory
Reverend Dr. Hallie Lawson Reeves
The Reverend Dr. Hallie Lawson Reeves, a woman of boundless wisdom, resilience, and faith, passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 89. Born in Durham, North Carolina, to Bishop Andrew William Lawson Sr. and Gracie Owens Lawson, she was one of four children, growing up alongside her older sister, Gladys Snowden; her younger brother, Andrew William Lawson Jr.; and her youngest sister, Martha Wanda Lawson DeBerry.
She is preceded in death by her father, Bishop Andrew William Lawson Sr; her mother, Mrs. Gracie Owens Lawson; her older sister, Gladys Snowden; and her younger brother, Andrew (Peter) Lawson Jr.
Dr. Reeves' formative years were shaped by a relentless pursuit of excellence, whether in her academic studies, deep involvement in church activities, or passion for music. Music was the heartbeat of her life. She began working as a private piano teacher at the age of 18. She served as the Church Musician and Director of Church Activities at her father’s church, Fisher Memorial United Holy Church, in Durham, North Carolina. In this role, she also directed the children’s choir, which she named 'The Buds of Promise. As a teacher in the Durham public school system, she shaped the musical journeys of countless children, dedicating long hours to instilling both technical skills and a love for the art of music. The musical foundation she established in Durham continues to thrive, as many of her former students have gone on to pursue careers in music, ministry, or both, carrying her legacy of excellence and devotion forward. She graduated from Hillside High School in Durham in 1953 and earned her degree in music from North Carolina Central University in 1958. In 1961, she married William Alphonzo Reeves, and to that union they were blessed with two daughters, Rona and Princess.
After expressing a strong desire to devote her life to Christian service and follow in the footsteps of her father, Dr. Reeves enrolled at Duke University’s School of Divinity in September 1975 and completed her studies there in September 1978.
In 1979, she left Durham, North Carolina, for Washington, D.C., where she remained until her passing. She embarked on a distinguished career as a chaplain, beginning her residency at Saint Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, D.C., and later serving as Director of Chaplaincy Services at Provident Hospital in Baltimore. In 1983, she was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by the National Theological Seminary.
In fulfillment of the United Methodist requirements for ordination, she enrolled in the United Methodist History and Doctrine program at Wesley Theological Seminary in January 1989. She was later ordained as an Elder by the Baltimore Conference of the United Methodist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
Dr. Reeves made history as the fourth African American woman in the country to be certified as a Supervisor by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). Over the span of two decades, she served as Administrative Staff Chaplain and ACPE Supervisor at Saint Elizabeths Hospital, mentoring over 1,200 students—many of whom went on to establish ACPE centers worldwide, from Nigeria to Korea, and Guam to Alaska. Her influence as a mentor and educator extended across generations and continents, ensuring that her passion for chaplaincy and spiritual guidance would continue shaping lives long after her tenure.
In 1994, her love for music never wavered, and she reopened her private music studio in Waldorf, Maryland. She took great pride in enrolling her students in the National Piano Teachers Guild, offering them opportunities to showcase their talents and grow as musicians.
In 2005, she was called to serve as the pastor of two churches in Dunkirk, Maryland, while also working as a Chaplain Supervisor at Washington Hospital Center.
In 2008, she was recognized at the Racial Ethnic Multicultural (REM) Network Conference for her pioneering role in ACPE. Among her many honors, she was inducted into the Preacher’s Hall of Fame in 2021 in recognition of her decades of dedicated ministry.
Dr. Reeves' impact is immeasurable. She was, and will forever remain, a guiding light—a woman whose presence transformed lives, whose wisdom shaped future generations, and whose legacy will continue to inspire all those who were blessed to stand in her presence. She overcame numerous obstacles of racism, sexism, and other negative stereotypes to fulfill the call God placed on her life, living with purpose and meaning. Her life was a symphony of service, learning, laughter, and unwavering faith—one that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is survived by her beloved daughters, Rona Reeves Tankard (Perry) and Princes Reeves (Joseph); her sister, Wanda Lawson DeBerry; and ten cherished grandchildren, along with twenty-two great-grandchildren.
Funeral Arrangements for Rev. Dr. Hallie Lawson Reeves:
Saturday, March 22, 2025
Providence Fort United Methodist Church Fort Washington Rd., Fort Washington, Maryland
Viewing: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Funeral Service: 11:00 AM
Monday, March 24, 2025
Peace Missionary Baptist Church Durham, NC Viewing: 11:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
Memorial Service: 12:00 Noon
Interment at Beechwood Cemetery to follow
3300 Fayetteville Street Durham, NC 27707
Condolences can be sent to: Bishop Rona Tankard, P.O. Box 13265 Durham, NC 27709
Send flowers to the service of Reverend Dr. Hallie Lawson Reeves
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Rev. Dr. Hallie Lawson Reeves Memory
Mark Hart
Mark donated his body to the Texas State University Forensics Department. We will have a memorial service on March 15, 2-4 pm, at Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne, Texas. In lieu of flowers, to support Mark’s love of nature, we ask that you plant a tree in his memory through the website, a living tribute or make a donation to Cibolo Nature Center.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mark Evans Hart, please visit our floral store.
Richard Alfred (Dick) Donnenwirth
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Richard Donnenwirth's Memory
Dunlap "Cal" Calvert Brand
Dunlap Calvert “Cal” Brand, 82, of Columbus, passed away Sunday, November 3, 2024 at Columbus Regional Hospital. He was born February 25, 1942 in Seymour, IN, to William Calvert and Betty (Ballard) Brand. They preceded him in death.
Cal was a 1960 graduate of Columbus High School. He then went on to graduate from Hanover College in 1964 and Princeton Theological Seminary in 1968. He earned a doctoral degree in spiritual direction in 1993. Cal spent much of his career as a chaplain and supervisor with the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education. He also ministered at a number of churches around the country during his career and until recently served locally as pulpit supply. He was a proud long time member of First Presbyterian Church, Columbus.
Cal loved traveling, golf, gardening, and woodworking. He sang in the church choir and remained very active in correspondence with colleagues and friends all over the world.
Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Donna M. Brand of Columbus; children, Lisa (Richard) Smith of Brighton, CO, and Christopher Brand of Winston-Salem, NC; siblings, Joan Brand-Watts of Bloomington, John Brand, and Jesse Brand, both of Columbus; and grandchildren, Thomas Smith, Sarah Smith, Josephine Brand, Kylah Smith, and Eliza Brand. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, November, 14 at 10am at First Presbyterian Church, 512 7th St., Columbus, IN 47201, with Rev. Dr. Felipe N. Martinez officiating.
Memorials in Cal’s name may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Foundation, with his name in the “memo” line.
Please leave a fond memory of Cal at www.Hathaway-Myers.com.
B. Dean Hokel
HENRY BRUCE MARKSBERRY
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Reverend Henry Bruce Marksberry, PhD., 89, of Fort Thomas Kentucky passed away on Monday September 9th, 2024 peacefully at the Hospice of Cincinnati. Henry was born, March 26th, 1935, in Newport Kentucky to Luda Marksberry and Marjorie (Kuhnheim) Marksberry. He grew up in Newport and attended Newport High School. From there, Henry attended Georgetown College for his Bachelor of Arts. He went on to receive his Master of Divinity at Southern Baptist Seminary; his Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio; and completed the classwork for a Doctor of Philosophy from Union Institute.
Everyone who knew Henry knew he was a lifelong learner, and a scholar. In May of 1955, Henry married his sweetheart Carol Sue Embry of Winchester, Kentucky. They met in Newport, and forged a lifelong relationship and an exceptional and loving bond. Her influence on Henry was significant, and her partnership was valued. Henry was an ordained Minister by the Campbell County Baptist Association, First Baptist Church, Newport, Kentucky 1955, and received an Ecclesiastical Endorsement and Ministerial Standing, United Church of Christ, Southwest Association, Ohio Conference 1964. He also had ministerial standing in southwest Ohio. Among his accomplishments, Henry was a board Certified Chaplain; a Diplomate from the International Association of Professional Pastoral Psychotherapists and Clinical Supervisors; a Certified Supervisor of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors; a Clinical Supervisor from the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists; a Certified Group Therapist (AGTA), a Fellow of the Association of Pastoral Counselors, and a Certified Supervisor from the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education. Just to name a few.
Reverend Marksberry started his pastoral career travelling the tri-state. In the beginning of his career, he worked at St. Peters Church in Osgood Indiana before joining the United Church of Christ. He led St. Johns Church of Christ in Indianapolis, then was an associate pastor in Newport, then ministered in Finneytown, Ohio, and then back to Newport Kentucky as the Senior Minister for St. Johns United Church of Christ. Later, he was a Senior Minister at the First United Church of Christ in College Hill, and was a sought after interim Minister at many tri-state churches until his retirement. His ideas, experience and leadership were always cherished. Henry’s holistic approach led him to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Professional Psychotherapist, a Licensed Drug and Addiction Counselor, a Spiritual Eldering Leader, a faculty member of the Lay Ministry Program at the Athenaeum of Cincinnati, and an Instructor at Mt. St. Mary’s College. Henry served as Director of Pastoral Care, Education, and Chaplaincy Services at Bethesda North Hospital for 24 years. He created a non-denominational approach for clinical Chaplaincy in the healthcare setting, with a focus on Death, Dying and Bereavement, servicing the whole person.
He was involved in the formation of the Bethesda Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program, served on the boards of the United Church of Christ, the Council on Alcoholism, the American Cancer Society, the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education, and was active in the formation of Hospice of Cincinnati. Henry’s program for Chaplaincy was so well received by patients, family and his students that his vision spread across the healthcare and religious landscape. Some of his students commented that he was always thinking 10 years ahead. In addition to his other remarkable accomplishments, Henry was especially proud to have served as an educator at the Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was a pioneer in clinical pastoral education and counseling. His colleagues and students saw Henry as an innovator.
None of this would have happened without the stability and grace of his wife Carol, who inevitably had to share Henry with the community. Together or apart, they were always a team. Henry and Carol loved living in Northern Kentucky, tending to their home in Fort Thomas. They always kept a beautiful garden and a focus on family. Henry is preceded in death by his older brother Donald Marksberry, and recently, his wife Carol Sue (Embry) Marksberry. He is survived by his children, Michael (Tara Scarborough) Marksberry and Lesa (David) Lipson, and his grandchildren Cory and Brooke Hemmelgarn, and Max and Dr. Molly Lipson. Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 17th, 2024 from 6-8pm at the Muehlenkamp-Erschell Funeral Home 427 South Fort Thomas Avenue Fort Thomas, Kentucky 41075. A short visitation will be held Wednesday September 18th, 2024 at 10am, with a funeral ceremony to follow at 11am at the St. Johns United Church of Christ, 415 Park Avenue Newport, Kentucky 41071. Burial will take place at the Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Kentucky. Henry’s wishes are for any donations to be made to the Hospice of Cincinnati. May his memory be a blessing.
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Henry Bruce Marksberry's Memory
Harlan Ratmeyer
Harlan Ratmeyer - husband, father, grandfather, minister, activist, and storyteller – passed away peacefully on the morning of July 19, surrounded by the love and support of family.
Born September 5, 1938, in the small farming community of Forreston, Illinois. Harlan graduated with a B.A. from Central College in Pella, Iowa in 1960. Four years later he received his Master of Divinity degree from Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan. He was ordained to ministry in the Reformed Church in America in July 1964.
Harlan's first ten years of pastoral service were in parish ministry in inner-city congregations – in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, and the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. He also spent six months in an intensive program at the Urban Training Center for Ministry in Chicago during the summer that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was in Chicago.
Harlan then spent three years as a Chaplain Intern in Clinical Pastoral Education (1973-75) at Prairie View Mental Health Center in Newton, Kansas and Assistant Chaplain Supervisor at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas (1975-76) before moving to California's Central Valley where he developed a Clinical Pastoral Education program at Kings View Mental Health Center in Reedley, California. He remained there for fifteen years, training men and women in pastoral ministry, and holding various leadership positions within the national and regional Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) including serving on its Board of Directors.
In April of 1995, Harlan accepted a position at Albany Medical Center to direct the hospital's Pastoral Care Department. He developed the department to include more ministry students in direct patient care and expanded the role of pastoral care to include greater involvement in staff and policy issues.
Harlan was a tireless advocate for universal healthcare, and penned the Health Care Manifesto, calling for such coverage and challenging the current model of fiscal considerations as the primary driver for healthcare decision-making, and he rallied the local faith community around this document.
Harlan taught at Albany Medical College in areas of spirituality, ethical considerations, and professional integration. In 2000 he received his Doctor of Ministry degree from New York Theological Seminary.
In 2011, he was awarded Honorary Membership of the Alumni Association for work establishing the Clinical Pastoral Care program at AMC and the impact the program has had on the AMC Community. He educated countless students, residents and staff, helping them to explore spirituality, and the mind-body-spirit connection for themselves, particularly as they are for their patients. He served on several hospital committees, including the Internal Review Board and Ethics Consultation Committee, interacting with a variety of agencies and organizations, including Interfaith Impact.
In 2011, Harlan received the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education Distinguished Service Award. This presentation is made each year to one of more than 400 supervisors in Clinical Pastoral Education who are recognized by their colleagues for their faithful and distinguished service.
In 2015, Harlan received one of Albany Medical Center's highest honors – the Pillars Award. The award is given annually to individuals who epitomize the spirit of the Medical Center and whose sustaining work and contributions reflect the essential community-based nature of its mission. "Importantly, his patients have observed that he has been their light in their darkest hour; a warm, caring, radiant presence that guides them through to health or, in some cases, helps them come to terms with the end of life," said James J. Barba, president and chief executive officer of Albany Medical Center (now retired).
In 2018, Harlan retired as the part-time pastor for the First Reformed Church of Bethlehem in Selkirk, New York, a small congregation he served for more than twenty years (concurrently with his service at Albany Medical Center). In 2019, he retired as Manager of Pastoral Care at Albany Medical Center.
In his retirement, as throughout his working life, he pursued several passions –gardening (tomatoes, garlic), cooking (pies, rib roasts), storytelling (childhood, pastoring), and driving (Mini) – and reveled in his time with family and friends. His storytelling was deeply valued by his friends, family, and community, and some of his stories have been captured in recordings, and in his December 2022 book, For Everything a Season.
Diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2017, Harlan resisted its ravages with the profound courage, grace, and humor that wove through everything he did – including taking up boxing and enduring long walks in any weather.
He is survived by his wife, Ellen, his daughters Stephanie Ratmeyer and Julia Ratmeyer, his grandchildren Sarah and Christopher Richardson, Madeleine and Emma Folkerts, and his son-in-law Paul Richardson.
A service honoring Harlan's life will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Delmar Reformed Church, 386 Delaware Ave., Delmar, N.Y. 12054. Lunch will be provided in the Fellowship Hall following the service.
In lieu of gifts or flowers, please make donations to the Pastoral Care Department, Albany Medical Center.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Agnes M. Barry
Agnes M. Barry died on July 15 at her home in the Salemtowne Retirement Community where she had been a resident since 2017. Agnes was born in Brooklyn, NY on April 26, 1935, the third daughter of the late Gertrude (nee McGroarty) and Hugh Barry. Agnes is survived by her life-partner, Jane Litzinger; her sisters Ursula Erit (Wayne, NJ), Arlene Murphy (Hilton Head, SC), and Gertrude Hooker (Charlotte, NC); her brother Hugh and his wife Elaine (Kings Park, NY); and many nieces, nephews, and their families and cousins. She is predeceased by her sister Madeline Mullane.
Agnes graduated from St. Saviour Elementary and High School in Brooklyn. She completed her undergraduate degree at the College of Notre Dame in Baltimore, MD. Agnes received a Master of Arts degree from Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT, and a Master of Divinity degree from the New York Theological Seminary in New York City.
From 1954 until 1975 Agnes belonged to the School Sisters of Notre Dame, a Roman Catholic Religious Community. In her ministry in that community, Agnes served as an elementary school teacher and later as founding principal of St. Catherine of Siena School in Nichols, CT and as principal of St. Alphonsus Elementary School in Brooklyn, NY.
In 1975, Agnes took a position as a chaplaincy student at Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn. There she discovered a new ministry call in work she loved and for which she was uniquely gifted. In 1976 she began training in Clinical Pastoral Education at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, VA. At UVA Agnes obtained certification as a Chaplain Supervisor and served in that position in the UVA Medical Center’s Department of Patient and Family Counseling until 1989. In 1989 Agnes was recruited to oversee the development of the Clinical Pastoral Education Program at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte where she served until her retirement in 2000. Agnes also served as the first Board Chair of RAIN an advocacy non-profit supporting individuals and families affected by HIV in the Charlotte metropolitan area.
Agnes was a compassionate and thoughtful companion to many suffering sickness and facing death. She was a brilliant teacher and mentor to countless ministry students as she taught them the art of pastoral care. Agnes was devoted to her family and friends and loved nothing more than preparing fine cuisine at her welcoming table. She appreciated sound theology, was a serious student of medical ethics, loved a good novel, and cheered for UVA basketball. Agnes was a powerful presence in most all settings. She served in regional and national leadership positions in the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education and in 1999 was the first woman to receive the Association’s Distinguished Service Award. Agnes’ influence as an educator shaped many students throughout her career. She did so with a quiet authority, seeing the person before her and creating space for them to better see themselves.
Agnes’ funeral will be held in the Saal at the Community Center of Salemtowne Retirement Community (190 Moravian Way Dr., Winston Salem, NC 27106) at 10:30 AM Friday, July 26. Clergy from St. Paul Episcopal Church will lead the service. Reflections on Agnes’ life will follow the service. Interment of ashes will be in the Dalton Memorial Garden at St. Paul’s at 4:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to RAIN (601 5th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202) or Outreach Ministries at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (520 Summit Street, Winston Salem, NC 27101). Condolences may be made online at www.salemfh.com.
Rev. Daryl Martin Hanson
Rev. Daryl Martin Hanson died May 17, 2024, at the age of 71. He was born in Appleton, WI, on June 14, 1952, to Harold and Inez (Botker) Hanson. Daryl's earliest jobs were at a Wisconsin paper mill and a hardware/hobby store. After high school, he pursued his call to ministry. In 1978, he graduated from Concordia Seminary (St. Louis, MO) with a Master of Divinity. Daryl embarked on a life of service and teaching. In addition to serving as a parish pastor, he also was a volunteer firefighter in Mokena, IL. Throughout his ministry, Daryl was also called to serve in Oklahoma, Texas, Alabama, and Ohio. He transitioned to chaplaincy in different communities. Ultimately, he became a Certified Supervisor through the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education. Daryl and two colleagues formed the Spiritual Care and Education Center (Toledo, OH) to train chaplains. He returned to parish ministry where, after serving several congregations, he retired from St. John’s Lutheran Church (Toledo, OH) on April 30th, 2024.
While an undergrad, Daryl met the love of his life, Mary Jane (Thomay) and they were wed on September 18, 1976. They were blessed with two beautiful daughters. Daryl was a craftsman and enjoyed woodworking, pottery, baking, making chocolate covered sweets, winemaking, photography, and community theater. He enjoyed gathering with family and friends to play Pinochle, Euchre, Sheepshead, and other games.
Daryl enjoyed his sweets and later in life craved shrimp, olives, and pickles.
Left to mourn Daryl: his wife of 47 years Mary; daughters Jennifer (Scott) Krankowski and Sarah (Kevin) Styer; grandchildren Aaron and Isaac; siblings Darlene (Richard) Weaver, Darwin (Karen) Hanson, Darroy Hanson, Darice (Jeff) Button; and several aunts, an uncle, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents and many other beloved family members.
The family will welcome visitors on June 7, 2024, from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Walker Funeral Home (5155 W. Sylvania Ave.) and from 9 am to 11 am on Saturday, June 8, 2024, with a memorial service beginning at 11 am at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests a contribution to Lewy Body Dementia Association (www.lbda.org) or ELCA Good Gifts (https://goodgifts.elca.org/).
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Rev. Daryl Martin Hanson's Memory
ACPE Educator Rev. Dr. Gerald "Gerry" Wyrwas
The Rev. Dr. Gerald "Gerry" Wyrwas, a Presbyterian minister who was the long-time director of pastoral care at Bon Secours Hospital (now called the Holy Family Hospital) in Methuen, Mass., died May 2, 2024, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. He was 89.
Those who knew him well describe Wyrwas as a family man of deep faith who embraced the many facets of his career in addition to being director of pastoral care, minister and licensed psychologist.
In the 25 years he was the director of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at Holy Family, almost 600 participants, called “interns,” from 43 countries participated in the hospital’s program. CPE is a multicultural, interfaith approach to teaching doctors, lawyers, hospital administrators, and educators how to more effectively deliver spiritual care to seriously ill patients and their caregivers.
“To say that Gerry Wyrwas is a visionary is an understatement,” a hospital colleague said when he retired from full-time work in 1999. “His work inspired CPE interns to join the ministry or to further theological education, as well as refreshing and revitalizing the work of missionaries throughout the world.”
Other colleagues said his integration of theology and psychology was a “unique gift” that gave him an in-depth understanding of people. “He invites people forth, into being the best they can be, and does so with a delightful sense of humor. He is a deeply compassionate and warm person.”
Family members and graduates of his CPE program often recall favorite aphorisms he relied on to perk up interns. One was: “Whenever we fail to acknowledge our God-given talents, we lie, cheat, and steal.” Another: “How are you feeling? Are you mad, sad, glad, or fearful?”
Gerald Grant Wyrwas was born September 28, 1934, in the small, remote coal-mining village of Inverness, Nova Scotia. He was the youngest of six children of Edward Theodore Wyrwas, an electrician, and Mary Agnes (MacKenzie) Wyrwas, a Sunday school teacher.
After graduating from high school, he briefly worked for his father, then took a job at the Royal Bank of Canada. After being promoted to assistant accountant and assigned to the Halifax branch in 1955, he met his future wife, Ethel M. Bowman, on a blind date. They married in May 1957.
Around that time, he decided to leave banking and join the ministry. “I liked banking and . . . had more than doubled my salary while I was with it,” he wrote years later, “but I was not satisfied. I felt there was more to life than handling other people’s money.”
He enrolled at Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and philosophy, with a minor in Greek. He then earned a Bachelor of Divinity at Pine Hill Divinity College in Halifax.
He was a student missionary in Alberta and assisted the ministers at the Brunswick Street United Church, Truro, and Guysborough-Canso Pastoral Church. While at Pine Hill, he served as Old Barns Pastoral Charge and Maitland Pastoral Charge. After ordination, he served as Winsloe Pastoral Charge, P.E.I., and then assistant minister of Trinity United Church in Charlottetown, P.E.I.
He was ordained a minister of the United Church of Canada in June 1960 and began his ecclesiastical career as the pastor of four rural churches in the village of Winsloe, Prince Edward Island.
In 1967, Wyrwas moved with his family to Massachusetts and was called into pastoral ministry in the Presbytery of Boston to serve as pastor with the First Presbyterian Church of Lynn. He also was named director of the Department of Spiritual Care (Pastoral) Services at Holy Family Hospital and maintained a pastoral counseling center in Lynnfield, Mass.
In 1980, Wyrwas was Moderator, or senior leader, of Boston’s presbytery, the regional governing body for Boston-area churches. A year later, he was the presbytery’s minister commissioner to the 193rd General Assembly in Houston.
A Boston Presbytery colleague described him as “an articulate and calming presence” at presbytery meetings and “invaluable” as chair of the Committee on Ministry. He was a founding member of the presbytery’s Honorably Retired Ministers group.
Wyrwas remained the pastor of the Lynn congregation for 20 years, finding time to earn two graduate degrees—Master’s of Sacred Theology and Doctor of Ministry—from the Andover Newton Theological School in Newton Centre, Mass. He also was a long-time adjunct faculty member of the school.
In addition to his ecclesiastical training, Wyrwas was a licensed psychologist and was a member of both the American Psychological Association and the Massachusetts Psychological Association.
A natural raconteur, he also enjoyed sharing humorous stories and indulging his children. His daughter Margaret said he delighted in impishly treating her and her siblings to soda and candy when they accompanied him on errands without Ethel, who frowned on her children indulging in junk food.
“Family was most important in Dad’s eyes,” his son, David, said. “The second most important thing was education and knowledge. He continually was trying to enhance his knowledge and wanted to share it with everyone he came in contact with.”
His musical tastes ran from Frank Sinatra to Rod Stewart, and he had a treasure chest of amusing stories to share with his family, students and parishioners.
“Dad was a man of deep faith, devotion to his family and friends, and dedication to helping others,” his younger daughter, Susan Lynn, recalled. “He was willing to listen and give advice, and would surprise people who didn’t know him with his dry wit.”
Susan Lynn’s son Daniel, using his nickname for the pastor, said, “Grampie had a story for everything with a knack for telling them to others. At the end of each story, he would typically share a good laugh with everyone he was telling the story to.”
Wyrwas was a lifetime member of Clan Mackenzie Society of the Americas, a Master Mason for 20 years with the Lynnfield-Zetland Lodge, chaplain for the Daughters of Scotia, and president and chaplain of the Scots’ Charitable Society.
He is survived by his wife, Ethel, a retired Registered Nurse Practitioner; daughters Margaret (Peter Thorner) of Westport, Conn., and Susan Lynn (Kevin Winters) of Easton, Mass.; son David (Myoung Hee) of Merrimack, N.H.; and grandson Daniel B. Winters of Philadelphia, PA.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Leonard, Margaret (Banks), Raymond, Maxwell, and Harold; and grandsons Thomas Ryan Winters, John David Wyrwas, and Edward Gerald Wyrwas.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. at the Bedford Presbyterian Church, 4 Church Road in Bedford, N.H. on September 28, 2024, which would have been his 90th birthday. The Rev. Dr. John Sawyer will conduct the service. Interment will occur in the Sand Hill Cemetery, Upper Nine Mile River in Nova Scotia at a later date.
It has been suggested that those who wish may make memorial contributions to one of these groups: the Alzheimer’s Association, Presbytery of Boston, Scots’ Charitable Society Scholarships and the Bedford Presbyterian Church.
The Wyrwas family gives special thanks to Gerry’s caregivers: the memory care staff at the Bedford Falls Assisted Living Facility, clinical staff members at Brookhaven Hospice, both in Bedford, N.H., and the Rivet Funeral Home and Crematorium in Merrimack, N.H.
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Rev. Dr. Gerald "Gerry" Wyrwas' Memory
ACPE Educator W. Ray Baile
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Alden-Harrington Funeral Home on Jun. 6, 2024.
W. Ray Bailey, age 97 of Lake of the Forest in Bonner Springs, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.
Rev. William Ray Bailey was born on September 30, 1926, in Tazwell, Virginia. He was one of three children born to John and Hattie (Jones) Bailey. He had two sisters, Ruth Ann and Nell.
Ray graduated from Tazwell High School and afterward, Ray was granted a "local preacher's license" in the United Methodist Church. He earned a B.A. degree from Emory and Henry College in 1951 and a B.D. degree from Duke University of Divinity School in 1956. He married Ellen Depew from Cambridge, Maryland in 1955. Ray was ordained a United Methodist Minister in 1958. He was introduced to Clinical Pastoral Education while at Duke University and after graduation, had further Chaplain Supervisor training in Houston TX (Institution of Religion), Topeka, KS (Topeka State Hospital), and Joliet, IL (Reception and Diagnostic Center). Ray then came to Bethany Medical Center in Kansas City, KS in 1960 to be a Chaplain Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor. He and Ellen moved to Lake of the Forest in 1963 and raised three children there, Kevin, Kathryn, and Kristen. Ray retired from Bethany Medical Center in 1999 after 40 years of service.
Over the years Ray helped with many organizations in the Kansas City area, including the Kansas East United Methodist Conference, the YMCA Kansas City Kansas Board (chosen YMCA Man of the Year in 1975), Cancer Action KCK Board, KCK Salvation Army Board, KCK Kiwanis Club, Bonner Springs-Edwardsville Kiwanis Club, was a Major in the Civil Air Patrol 1974-1978, Lake of the Forest Board President and Wayside Waifs Board.
He was preceded in death by both his sisters, Ruth Ann Burke, and Nell Moore. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Ellen (Depew) Bailey, his three children, Kevin Bailey, Kathryn Bailey, and Kristen Christensen and spouse Terry, Grandchildren: Philip Bailey, Janae (Bailey) Thornton and spouse John, Alison Bailey, Bethany (Bailey) Thompson and spouse Aaron, Jessica (Christensen) Wells and spouse Xavier, Benjamin Bailey, Andrew Christensen and four Great-Grandchildren.
Memorial contributions can be made to Wayside Waifs Animal Shelter, 3901 Martha Truman Road, Kansas City, MO.
Visitation will be 10am to Noon, with the Funeral Service beginning at Noon, both on Friday, June 14th at the St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church
(1501 Edwardsville Dr. Edwardsville, KS 66111) Burial will follow in the Edwardsville Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store
ACPE Educator Horace O. Duke Jr.
PCoP Communications Team
ACPE Emeritus Educator Chaplain Wendell Stangeland
El Dorado Hills, California - Chaplain Wendell Millard Stangeland, age 92 passed away Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at home with his loving wife of 35 years, Elizabeth Lynne by his side.
ACPE Retired Educator Rev. Raymond Otto
April 14, 1933 - January 12, 2024
Rev. Raymond Otto passed peacefully into the arms of Christ on January 12th, 2024. Ray was born in Detroit, MI on April 14th, 1933 to Claudia and Christian Otto. The oldest of five siblings, Ray often reminisced about childhood adventures with Ruth, Robert, Grace and Eunice, who he loved dearly and remained close with throughout their lives. With limited resources during the Great Depression, Ray’s family enjoyed simple pleasures such as fishing from the family boat on the Detroit River, lining up live Christmas trees in the dining room, enjoying their pet parakeet who flew freely in their home, and star gazing from their balcony on balmy nights.
Detroit’s booming auto industry offered fertile ground for Ray’s lifelong love of cars, and he had early aspirations of becoming an automobile designer. With encouragement from his mother however, Ray set his sights on becoming a minister, graduating from Concordia Seminary in 1958. Following initial work as a church pastor, Ray found his true calling in 1965 as a pastoral care director. Ray was a passionate leader of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) programs, which he launched at several hospitals during his career. Ray was active in CPE work at the national level, serving as the Southeast Region Chair for the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education from 2002-2004. Ray was a strong believer that CPE programs provided the self-reflection and skill building needed for pastors to provide effective counseling support.
Ray touched the lives of so many with his warm and caring spirit, including countless patients and treasured friends, colleagues and family members. His children and grandchildren will be forever thankful for the loving support he wrapped them in. He had a gift for truly understanding people without judgment, and readily offered sage advice or a perfectly apt anecdote to guide others through the ebbs and flows of life. He served as a model of empathy, love, and insight for all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Judith Bunker Otto, his children Aurora Otto, Jill Otto, and Nathan Bunker-Otto, as well as grand-children Lynn Otto, Jacob Burnett, Jordan Francis, Blake Bryant and Rebecca Francis.
Dr. Joseph Warlick Whitwell Jr, ThD
December 15, 1939 – January 2024
Dr. Joseph Warlick Whitwell Jr, ThD was born on December 15, 1939 in Memphis, Tennessee. He was the oldest of three boys born to Joseph Warlick Whitwell, Sr. and Lucile Bean Whitwell. At age 3, the family moved back to their hometown, Senatobia Mississippi, after his father took ill. Unfortunately, just 6 years later, when Joe was only 9 years old, his father passed, leaving Lucy to raise her three small boys alone. Growing up in the small town of Senatobia, MS in the 1950’s, Joe made the best of his situation as Senatobia took good care of him. As a young man, he took on whatever job he could. He was bagging groceries at the local grocery, lifeguarding and worked construction.
Many summers, James Coleman, the Senatobia Warriors coach, would have Joe and some of his teammates help build houses. Joe learned to swing a hammer, repair a roof, build a stone wall and other essential skills that he would use for the rest of his life. Joe loved sports and was very athletic in his high school and college years. Joe aggressively defended the Senatobia Warriors on the football and baseball fields. Joe’s dedication was evident because at halftime he would run off the field to Water skiing was another beloved sport. The local Senatobia doctor, Dr. Ethlen, took Joe out on her boat and taught him how to water ski. Water skiing translated into an intense love of snow skiing. These traditions of his youth carried on as Joe, his wife, Marguerite, and his children spent hours on the waters off Lake Lanier and on the slopes of North Carolina and Colorado. After high school, Joe went to Millsaps College in Jackson, MS. He firmly believed in keeping an active mind and body. Academically, he earned his bachelors in Philosophy and was named honorable mention Little All-American for playing football at Millsaps. In 2023 Joe was inducted into the Millsaps Football Hall of Fame. His social life was filled with being Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity President. In his sophomore year, he began to serve as pastor to several Methodist churches near Jackson, MS. In his junior year at Millsaps, he met his future bride, Marguerite and on January 24, 1964, they were married. Joe’s greatest passion, his life’s work, was to help others through the toughest or darkest times of their lives.
To pursue this passion as a career, he sought his post-secondary education at The Candler School of Theology at Emory University and received his doctorate in Pastoral Counseling. He was a minister for the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC). In 1972, he became the Director of Pastoral Services and Staff Therapist for the Wesley Woods Geriatric Center in Atlanta, GA, which included a clinical pastoral education program that was a part of the Georgia Association for Pastoral Care (GAPC). In that capacity, he provided supervision for students in the doctoral programs in pastoral counseling through Atlanta area seminaries. trade a football uniform for a band uniform. Just as quickly, changing back into his helmet and pads to join the huddle. It’s no wonder why he was voted Mr. Senatobia in High School. Shortly thereafter, he established a satellite counseling center on the Wesley Woods campus to provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. This especially helped families struggling with issues in the care of an aging parent or relative. He loved to dance. Joe and his zest for life will be greatly missed.
In 2009, he shifted his attention to providing mental health support as a Marriage and Family Therapist. As the Executive Director of The Covenant Counseling & Family Resource Center in Snellville, Ga., Joe was able to provide support for families in crisis and train others to do the same. It is impossible to measure the number of lives he touched, the people he helped, and the impact he made in the lives of his clients, his students, his friends, and family. No doubt, he will be remembered for his compassion, dedication, and his generosity of spirit in helping others. Joe was a great father, an average musician, an avid sportsman, and master craftsman. He loved his wife and kids. He enjoyed playing the guitar and ukulele. He loved to water and snow ski. He had a passion for building, repairing, and creating. He enjoyed a good drink along with a great story or joke. Even though he wasn’t very good at it, he loved to dance. Joe and his zest for life will be greatly missed.
Jonathan Waddell
August 30, 1941– November 20, 2023
The Reverend Doctor Jonathan Howard Waddell was born in Mississippi on August 30, 1941, and passed away peacefully in Birmingham on November 20, 2023.
He is survived by his wife, Lucie Magnus, whom he loved tenderly. Their relationship was
one of healing and devotion. The lyric "his gentle means of sculpting souls took me years to understand" from the song "Leader of the Band" by Dan Fogelberg aptly describes Jonathan's way of being. He lived a life of service, touching thousands of
lives as a priest, educator and as a marriage and family therapist. As a clinical pastoral educator with the Baptist Health System and University of Alabama Birmingham, his innovative approach often led to his students uncovering things about themselves
that they hadn't previously known or understood, much to their surprise. He loved playing golf, fishing, working in the yard at his beloved lake home and a nice glass of Scotch.
He will be remembered for his sparkling eyes, loving smile,
wicked sense of humor, deep soul, kindness, generosity and, above all, his acceptance of people as they were. He had a keen intellect, a love of learning and he cherished his solitude. He was a towering man with a gentle shoulder to lean upon, and
those who knew him will miss his willingness to be there for them.
He is also survived by his son, Michael Waddell; his stepchildren, Daniel Wright Beck (Lyndall), Matthew Magnus Beck (Darlene) and Laura Beck Carlson (Jeremy); his grandchildren Ann Wright Carlson, Alice Beck Carlson, Boyd Wright Beck and William Knight
Beck. Additionally, he is survived by his nephews Gary and Dennis Freeman and his niece Jeannie Ross. He was predeceased by his mother Annie Josephine Waddell, his father Howard Hagan Waddell, his brother David Paul Waddell, his sister Elizabeth Josephine
Waddell and his first wife Donna Grice Boone.
He grew up in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, and graduated from Crystal Springs High School in Mississippi, and graduated from Crystal Springs High School in 1957. He graduated from William
Cary College in 1961. He received his Masters of Theology in 1967 and his Doctorate of Education in 1972 from The New Orleans Baptist Seminary. He was an ordained Baptist minister for 25 years. In 1991, he was ordained as an Episcopal priest. Jonathan
was highly credentialed in his professions as a clinical supervisor for marriage and family therapists and licensed professional counselors. He was a clinical pastoral education supervisor and was a Diplomate in the American Association of Pastoral
Counselors. He served on the staff of several Episcopal churches in Alabama.
His memorial service will be at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Birmingham on Tuesday, November 28 at 3 p.m. with visitation starting at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made to STAIR Birmingham, a literacy organization, or your favorite charity.
Services are under the direction
of Ridout's Valley Chapel (205-879-3401) in Homewood.
Peggy Davis Gold
November 24, 1959– November 1, 2023
Peggy Davis Gold, 63, of Durham, N.C., died on November 1, 2023, at Duke Regional Hospital. She was born Nov. 24, 1959, and was the daughter of the late Barbara Geer Davis and Dr. Richard T. Davis.
She is survived by her son, Austin and his wife Tara of Durham; her brother, Richard T. Davis Jr. of Danville, Va.; her sister, Nancy Davis and husband Tip Nicholson of Statesville; nephew Richard T. Davis III (Rachelle) of Largo, Fla.; and nieces Brittain Kenney (Will) of Charlotte, Stacy Knabb (Drew) of Fox Point, Wis., and Peggy Nicholson (Justin Tosco) of Durham; and her great nieces and nephews who loved their “Aunt Lady.”
For more than 20 years, Peggy served as a chaplain at Duke Hospital. She was a certified educator for the hospital’s Clinical Pastoral Education program. A graduate of Agnes Scott College in Atlanta, Peggy received her master’s degree in divinity from Duke University. She completed her residency in pastoral care at Duke and is certified as an ACPE certified educator by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education. She previously served as a chaplain with Partners in Caring, an HIV/AIDS ministry.
Perhaps Peggy’s greatest gift was how she made everyone around her feel truly seen and heard, knowing exactly whether you needed wisdom, wit, or just an understanding smile. In addition to bringing great conversation, laughter and love to any occasion, Peggy excelled in party planning and gift giving. Her gifts were also shared in the way she eased the nerves of countless couples as their wedding officiant and comforted grieving families with words and compassion in times of loss.
Extremely proud of her son, Peggy delighted in the company of Austin and Tara and the home they created for foster children. While she loved her grandmother name, “Mamie,” she especially loved “being” a Mamie, a role which she embraced devotedly.
The memorial service for Peggy will be held Friday, November 17, at 3 p.m. in the outdoor sanctuary at Bluestem Conservation Cemetery, 1900 Hurdle Mills Road, Cedar Grove, N.C. Because this is a natural area, guests are encouraged to dress comfortably. A private burial will be held earlier. Friends and family are also invited to a time of “story-sharing” on Thursday, November 16, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the home of Austin and Tara, 3 Brown Bark Court, Durham.
To honor Peggy, donations may be made to the 501(c)3 Bluestem Community.
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Mary Ann Weigel
July 9, 1941–August 6, 2023
Mary Ann Weigel passed away peacefully Sunday August 6, 2023, at Mayo Clinic Hospital. Mary Ann was born July 9, 1941, in Napoleon, ND to Baltzer and Katherine (Wangler) Weigel. She graduated from Napoleon High School in 1959, Presentation College in Aberdeen, SD in 1962, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI in 1967, and graduated with a Master of Clinical Pastoral Counseling from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA in 1971. Mary Ann was a member of the Presentation Sisters in Aberdeen, SD for 18 years.
Mary Ann spent many years ministering to families and the sick at St. Luke’s Hospital in Fargo, ND and later transferring to the Spiritual Care Department at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN where she was Supervisor of Clinical Pastoral Education for 15 years.
Mary Ann was an avid reader with many hobbies including travel, playing cards, and visiting her family including her many nieces and nephews. Mary Ann and Clarence enjoyed spending summers in Rochester, MN and winters in Green Valley, AZ. Clarence and Mary Ann were married for 36 years.
She is survived by her husband Clarence Wanner; stepsons Michael Wanner and his partner Laura Robertson, of Austin, TX, and Robert and his wife Laura Wanner, of Fountain Hills, AZ; siblings Agatha Schaffer, of Detroit Lakes, MN, Ben Weigel, Carolyn Gross, and Medy Gross of Bismarck, ND.
Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents Baltzer and Katherine Weigel; Agnes and Andy Gross, Helen and Baltzer Wald, Herman Schaffer, Delores Weigel, Marian Weigel, Alvin Gross, John Gross; nephews Robert Weigel, Darren Gross, and niece Mary Ann Goetz.
Funeral Service celebrating Mary Ann’s life will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 9th at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2830 18th Avenue NW, Rochester, MN with Pastor Glenn Monson officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.
Online condolences are welcome and may be shared at mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Mary Ann Weigel’s own statement from the publication: Retired Supervisor’s Network-Legacy Issue-ACPE Annual Conference, Minneapolis, MN: May 3-6,2017
“We have not ceased in our explorations until we have come full circle and know that place for the first time.” T.S. Eliot
The above statement was the title of my theory paper for supervision. I have experienced this phenomenon in my own growth as a supervisor and observing the process in my students. I entered CPE from the background of Presentation Sisters formation program and Marquette University, Milwaukee WI, and Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. What excited me most in my training was the interdenominational nature of the groups. That breadth and depth of the training environment watered my soul from the beginning. Today I still receive the greatest satisfaction working within ecumenical circles. I am indebted to S. Marvin Johnson, Earl Cooper and Adeline Anderson. They were my mentors- supervisors.
My CPE supervision called me to the North Central region and within that support I was fully certified in 1983. In Fargo, ND at Saint Luke's Hospital (now Sanford) and at Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, I spent 33 years supervising students. A cast of characters have been my students, both learning from them and helping them reflect on their learning. I probably would have never been in ministry without the interdenominational aspects of the learning environment. My high point in supervision has always been the basic seminary students. What excitement in the eyes of a student who for the first time was able to integrate (get it) theology with the practice of the ministry!
One learns by teaching. In working within the ecumenical setting, I have been able to deepen my own Roman Catholic theology as that has evolved over time. I am deeply grateful for what I have learned from my students and the part I have been able to play in their professional and personal development.
Reverend Father Samuel Kochuplavila Mathew
May 31, 1949– July 31, 2023
Rev. Fr. Dr. Samuel K. Mathew, a devoted father, husband, Indian Eastern Orthodox Priest, esteemed chaplain, army veteran and educator, passed away on July 31, 2023, at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center with his family by his side. He was 74 years old.
Father Sam pursued an extensive academic journey, culminating in several degrees and certifications in the fields of theology, counseling, and chaplaincy. His educational accomplishments include a Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Counseling, Masters in Sacred Theology, Masters of Divinity, Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in History and Economics from Kerala University. Fr. Sam dedicated himself to serving others through his roles as an ACPE Certified Educator, Chaplain, and Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor at Perry Point, Maryland VA Medical Center, Koala Hospital, Lutheran Hospital, Methodist Hospital, Howard Community Hospital, Geisinger Health System, Morristown Medical Center, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Holy Redeemer Hospital and Albert Einstein Medical Center. Fr. Sam’s dedication to helping others extended to providing family therapy at Kirkbride Center, Northwestern Human Services and leading the Head of Religion and Counseling Department at Martin University. His chaplaincy roles included service in the United States Army as a Captain from 1983 - 1988.
Fr. Sam is survived by his loving wife Rebekah Mathew and children - Phoebe Mathew, Phinehas Mathew and Philbie Mathew. However, he was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Priscilla Elizabeth Mathew, who passed away on August 1, 1993. Fr. Sam’s impact on the lives of those he touched will be remembered fondly and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
ACPE Retired Educator Rev. Dr. C. George Fitzgerald
July 23, 1934 - July 6, 2023
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Rev. Dr. C. George Fitzgerald, who most people knew as George, was born on July 23, 1934, in Faith, South Dakota to Roland Edward Fitzgerald and Mary Elizabeth Weedman Fitzgerald. His family moved to Glendale, CA on December 7, 1941, where George attended school and was in The Police Boys Band. He graduated from UCLA in 1956. He graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1959. He married Mary Lee in 1959. They had two children, Erin and David. They both had children, making him Grandpa George.
Upon completing his seminary education, he was ordained a pastor in the Presbyterian Church. His first assignment as a new pastor was in a small mining town of Minturn where he also performed services every Sunday in the small town of Redcliff. Following that he served a church in a suburb of Denver, Broomfield, 1961-1965 where he had been called to assist the church to get out of debt after building a new building.
Following his ministry with the church in Broomfield he spent one year at Menniger Foundation, Topeka, Kansas enrolled as a fellow in Pastoral Care Ministry. Upon his successful completion of that training he was certified by ACPE as a CPE Supervisor and in 1966 began as a chaplain Princeton Hospital. He also trained in family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family in New York City.
In 1978 he left the east coast and began as the Director of Chaplains at Presbyterian Hospital in San Francisco. He worked there until 1988 when he became the Director of Spiritual Care at Stanford Hospital. He had a successful career at Stanford and retired in 2014 at age 80. George was active in his professional organization, ACPE, Inc. One year he received the Distinguished Service Award for his work with ACPE, especially with the international community. During the time he was at Presbyterian Hospital he was enrolled in a doctoral program at San Francisco Theological Seminary in San Anselmo, CA. He was immensely proud when he completed this doctoral degree in systematic theology.
He married his wife, Susan, in 1983. They both sang in the choir at Old First Presbyterian Church in San Francisco. After living a couple of years in San Francisco, they moved to Alameda, an island adjacent to the City of Oakland. They loved Alameda so much they found a home on the estuary that they renovated it and turned it into their incredibly exceptional home. George and Susan were active service volunteers in Rotary International and The Hearing Loss Association of America. They also were members of the Aeolian Yacht Club. They enjoyed traveling, having visited five different continents in their travels. They were active in their local Presbyterian Church during their marriage.
One endeavor George was proud of was in 2006 when a group of 12 gathered to discuss rescuing a journal that focused on educating chaplains and creating a new life for the journal. The Board elected him as the president of the Board of Editors for Reflective Practice. He served as the president of the Board for ten years. This new journal is now in its seventeenth year of publication and going strong.
The last year of George’s life was challenging for him and his family. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s last year and required 24-hour care in a memory care center in Oakland. While at the care facility he required surgeries twice. Following each surgery, he needed to recuperate in a care facility for memory patients recuperating from surgery. On July 6 he died while taking his afternoon nap.
George is survived by Susan, his wife; Erin, daughter (New York); David, Son (Florida); grandchildren: Beatrice and Clara Steuer; and Christopher, Steven, and Amber Fitzgerald. Sister, Adele Gronbach. Alexis Horn, Stepdaughter; Step grandchildren, Alexander and Josephine Horn
A memorial service for George will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Alameda, 2001 Santa Clara Avenue, Alameda, CA 94501 at 1:00 PM.
ACPE Retired Educator Brown Kinnard, Jr
The early social realities were the Great Depression, Bible Belt religion, racial segregation, WW II, and the Korean War. After high school at Battle Ground Academy, he met Gisela Kelm at David Lipscomb College, a Church of Christ school in Nashville. She was a survivor of WW II from Frankfurt, Germany. Inspired by her faith, he changed from math to ministry, his true calling. They married in 1954 and had five beautiful children -Cynthia, Mike, Steve, Katrina, and Rebecca. After 24 years the marriage ended in divorce. In 1980 he married Evelyn Dawes Thoma of Ann Arbor MI originally from Anderson SC, a church musician, and later social worker and Bible storyteller. Brown became stepfather to Fran, Lynn, and Hans. He and "Ev" became best friends sharing their southern roots and humor, Christian faith, church music, family times, and outdoor adventures.
ACPE Retired Certified Educator Richard Dayringer
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ACPE Retired Certified Educator Priscilla L. Denham
Priscilla was creative, whether it came to arts and crafts with her grandchildren, writing poetry, or offering a humor-filled perspective. She was a vivacious introvert.
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Rev. Priscilla L. Denham's Memory
ACPE Certified Educator Emeritus Rev. Donald E. Blume
5 January 1935 – 25 March 2023
Born in the same house as his father on a farm outside Crown Point, Indiana, and baptized at Trinity Lutheran Church 3 March 1935, Rev. Blume lived during the 1940’s with his parents in trailer camps throughout the southwest while they sought a healthy climate for his mother and employment for his father, eventually settling in Kerrville, Texas.Rev. Blume graduated from Concordia College, Austin, Texas, and Concordia Theological Seminary, Saint Louis, Missouri. He interned with the Lutheran Service Society of Western New York in Buffalo prior to his senior year at seminary. He was ordained on 11 September 1960.
His preparation for eventual certification as a hospital chaplain and clinical pastoral educator occurred at Gowanda (NY) State Hospital (Richard J. Lehman); Saint Louis City Hospital (Peter T. Burke); Minneapolis General Hospital (David Belgum); Boston City Hospital (Frank Oxenford), which were Institute of Pastoral Care centers, and at Methodist Hospital of Brooklyn (Keith Keidel), a Council for Clinical Training center. The Association for Clinical Pastoral Education granted Acting Supervisor status in 1968 and full certification as Supervisor in 1969. The chaplain’s division of the American Protestant Hospital Association (a predecessor body to the Association of Professional Chaplains) granted certification in 1966.
Prior to entering chaplaincy, Rev. Blume served as co-pastor at Zion Lutheran Church, Kearney, Nebraska, before accepting a call to develop a full time campus ministry at Kearney State College, now the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
In 1965, Rev. Blume became the first Director of Chaplaincy at Clara Maass Medical Center, Belleville, New Jersey, where he established and developed an ACPE accredited program. Rev. Blume served there in the capacity of chaplain and clinical pastoral educator until 1986, when he accepted a call to Manchester, New Hampshire, to establish and develop an ACPE accredited center as part of an already existent chaplaincy department at the Elliot Hospital, where he served as chaplain and clinical pastoral educator until retiring in 1998.
Rev. Blume’s involvement with the ACPE beyond the hospitals in which he served included membership on the Certification Committee (National, Eastern Region, Northeast Region); Accreditation Committee (Northeast Region); and Chair of the Northeast Region. He served in numerous capacities within the College of Chaplains, which awarded him a certificate of recognition “In appreciation for outstanding contributions, leadership and professional services,” and on his 80th birthday the Association of Professional Chaplains named him an Honorary Life Member. He was a member of the Consultation Committee for Specialized Pastoral Ministry of the Lutheran Council, USA; served as chair of the New Jersey Chaplains Association; president of the chaplains division for the Middle Atlantic Health Conference; and was a Pastoral Fellow at the General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church in New York City.
With retirement came the freedom to become more directly engaged in the life of the church. Rev. Blume was the Dean of the New Hampshire Conference of the New England Synod, ELCA, for twenty-one years; a member of the New England Synod Council; a member of the synod’s Health and Wholeness Team; a founding member of the Granite State Organizing Project; and served as an interim pastor in several congregations as well as doing supply ministry. Blume was a member of the New England Episcopal-Lutheran Dialog and was appointed co-convener. Following the adoption of Called to Common Mission, he co-convened the New England Episcopal-Lutheran Implementation Team, dissolving the group after accomplishing its purpose.
Rev. Blume is survived by a son, Alan, and daughter-in-law, Martha neé Dieter, and their two daughters, Phoebe and Margaret; a daughter, Anne, and son-in-law, Johan Robertsson, and their daughter, Astrid, and son, Joar.
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Rev. Donald E. Blume's Memory
ACPE Certified Educator Jennifer "Jenn" Hall
Jenn worked as a hospital chaplain and became a certified Clinical Pastoral Educator. They were a gifted chaplain and a dedicated educator, scholar, and theologian. Through their chaplaincy work and work in chemical dependency, Jenn impacted a vast number of lives. | Read more
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ACPE Retired Educator Rev. Paul David Steinke
ACPE Certified Educator Candidate Joel Jueckstock
ACPE Retired Educator Clarence Young Barton
Clarence Young Barton, 93, died January 12, 2023. He lived at Miralea in Louisville, KY, for the last ten years. Clarence was born on February 28, 1929 in Reidville, SC to Jerry Easley Barton and Ziza Bruce Barton Martin. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Mary DeVilbiss Barton; his four children, Melanie Ahr (Steve), Judy Sellars (Terry), Lisa Jensen (Mark), and Bruce Barton (Renee); four grandchildren Anna Jensen (Matt Naylor), Mollie Jensen Crockett (Martin), John Barton, Natalie Barton; and two step-greatgrandchildren Brayden and Mila Angel.
Make an ACPE Foundation Gift in Clarence Young Barton's Memory