Bert is also the father and grandfather of some former parishioners of mine. When I pastored at Tanner Valley, he would come up and visit often, especially to see his grandchildren, Ashley and Derrick, confirmed. Those same grandchildren now inform me that he has only a few days to live.
He is a good and faithful man in all ways. I am honored to call him my friend, and I thank God for his ministry among us.
Then, when their task is finished here,
in humble hope their charge resign.
When the Chief Shepherd shall appear,
O God, may they and we be thine.
