~In Loving Memory~
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That phrase… “went on to be with the Lord..”; it is such a
common way to say we have lost a loved one. Have we considered what that truly
means though? All of these precious lives that have passed away- families and loved ones who feel the pain in their loss: take heart! The
people on this page are really, truly experiencing Heaven… HEAVEN!
It’s not a concept anymore; it’s not a thought or a goal to reach at the end of
this life… it’s their REALITY. It’s what they are experiencing RIGHT NOW! While
we are down here, going about life without them, it is so easy to forget that
the ups and downs, trials and tests, pains and hurts that are so normal and “part
of life”… are not a part of their existence.
They aren’t having down days, or feeling any pain, or feeling any
brokenness of heart. They are more whole and complete than we could possibly
fathom in our finite minds. What a joy
it is to think of these dear Saints REALLY experiencing this Heaven. This “far
away” concept for us, is their “daily” joy and treasure. They truly are walking
streets paved with gold… they’ve undoubtedly met some of the most influential
people of faith throughout all of history;
they truly get to see Jesus everyday… With that in mind, we should no
longer feel sorry for the lives that were cut so short. We should rejoice
that they are no longer waiting for their reward, but have been granted it, and
have been honored and promoted from this life, to His Heavenly Kingdom.
_We would like to honor the dear friends and loved ones of Free Gospel
Bible Institute, that have gone on to be with the Lord. If someone is
not listed here, please contact us with a name and information or submit your own memories of individuals listed or unlisted.
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Rev. Joseph Dutka, Class of 1961
Many people have made a lasting effect on the history of FGBI. One of which is the late Rev. Joseph Dutka. He held the title as the first student to enroll at FGBI in 1957. More notable however, was his dedication to Brother Beam during his time as a faculty member. In 1967, he joined the staff and faithfully served until his death, August 8, 1983. Over the years, he dutifully served as Ministry Director and Academic Dean. His legacy lives in the hearts of those who were under his influence.
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Rev. David J. Beam, President 1962-1998
Dr. David J. Beam was a man devoted to his duty, committed to his calling, and intent on developing the vision for lost souls everywhere. Free Gospel Bible Institute was his passion for over half of his life. He led a life of discipline and holiness, holding great enthusiasm for the Lord's work, and willingly gave his all.
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Troy Tilkaran, Class of 1987
Troy Tilkaran came to Bible School and astounded everyone with his ingenuity and ability to fix things. After graduation he went to Sierra Leone with Michael and Debra Metzger, and was a tremendous asset to the Mission there. Troy was tragically killed by the reckless driving of government officials in that country.
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Randy Crowell, Class of 1988
Randy Crowell, Class of 1988, was a quadriplegic, whose victorious thinking stunned many. Despite all of the challenges he faced, he always smiled and praised God for His goddness. Randy would go to churches and preach from his wheelchair. He passed away two-years after gaduation.
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Stephen Burgess, Class of 1992
Stephen Burgess graduated in 1992. He was known around the holiness movement for his heavy involvement in the ministry. Working as a missionary, a teacher, and a preacher, his life touched hundreds through the years. Stephen passed away February 2008, due to an aneurysm. Though greatly missed by many, his legacy lives on.
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Carrie Vanzant, Class of 2008
Carrie Vanzant graduated in 2008. Her cheerful bubbly spirit was infectious, and she was loved by multitudes. As a student, Carrie demonstrated sold out commitment and dedication to serving the Lord. When it was conveyed to her, that by traveling to India on a SENT Trip as a Missionary, she could be put in prison, she confidently proclaimed she would do God's work no matter what. Carrie was killed in a tragic car accident on the way to a Youth Camp only months after graduating.
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Cynthia (Freze) Roy, Class of 1980
Cynthia Roy, Class of 1980, lost her battle with cancer in 2008. She is survived by her alumnus husband, Chip Roy, and a daughter, Sarah Roy, who will graduate from FGBI in 2012.
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Donna (Faulkner) Greeno
Donna Greeno, Class of 1984, passed away in 1995, due to cancer. She is survived by 3 children and her husband, Dennis, who is serving the Lord in Elmira NY.
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Submit Your Own Special Memories of Loved Ones of FGBI, or Submit a Person to be Honored in Remembrance.
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