Ed Finkle

 

 

Edward Finkle, 81, passed away last Monday.  He served 13 years as the volunteer fleet coordinator in the California Ventura Mission.  Although he had retired from that service by the time we arrived, we were privileged to get to know him in the Ventura First Ward.  Every week he would come early, open up the chapel, greet everyone and hand out programs.  He attended the Gospel Essentials class every week.  One of his favorite sayings was, "Well, everyone loves their sins.  I know I have some favorite ones."  He had was a positive influence and example to many in the ward.

As I browsed his facebook page, I could see that the missionaries who knew him enjoyed him.  Thirteen years is a long time to serve!   I know we will miss seeing him each week at church and anticipating his remarks in Sunday School. 

Yesterday was his memorial service.  Bishop and Lori sang "Brightly Beams Our Father's Mercy" acapella - it was lovely.  Right after his "adopted" son, Mike, read some excerpts from Ed's recently-written testimony, I was privileged to sing, "I Know That My Redeemer Lives."  A former missionary shared some tributes from various missionaries and former mission presidents.  Bishop Hooke gave a great sermon on the Atonement of Jesus Christ, which touched some of the non-member friends in attendance.  I think Brother Finkle would have been pleased the service.

(The pictures I posted are from his facebook page.)