An Old Friend Died Today....

[71GSX455-4SPD]

A college friend of mine passed away today, 1 day short of the second anniversary of his surgery for colon cancer. Though he fought hard, in the end the cancer came back and took him. he was a devoted father, husband, and man of God.

He wasn't even 50 years old and leaves three teenagers in addition to his wife. He grew very close to God over the past 15 years ago, and I'm sad to say that he and I had grown pretty much apart over that time, although we kept tabs every few years. We were in touch much more so after he announced his cancer. I did get to see him last Wednesday- a day before his condition had him in the hospital and we had a great visit.

He was always a master story teller and had a flair for the dramatic. Back in the old days it was navy stories, but when he left the corporate world in favor of a full-time ministry he turned this story telling gift into Christian teachings- always with some humor thrown in to keep his audience into it. If you have the time and inclination, you can visit his website at:

http://www.faithandlaughter.com/

If not, please say a prayer for him and the family he left behind.

Thank you.

[BuickBuddy]

I very sorry to hear this my friend. Always very sad to hear of someone taken in their prime.

I will say a prayer for his family.

[71GSX455-4SPD]

I very sorry to hear this my friend. Always very sad to hear of someone taken in their prime.

I will say a prayer for his family.

Thanks, Dave. His name was Joe Rieger and he has a brother Bobby probably your age and the family's from Milford. You may know them.

[chryco63]

Ken, I'm sorry to hear of his passing. It sounds like he had a great gift, and it's great to hear that he used it for the Lord. Neat bio on his website.

Him and his family are in my prayers.

[Dana/Beth Andrews]

Our condolences Ken, prayers coming from Chicago

D & B

[Floydsbuick]

I'm saddened to hear of your friend dying. I'll keep you and his family in my prayers. I checked his site out. Very good site. Says alot about him.

[71GSX455-4SPD]

I just want to say thanks for your thoughts and prayers. One of the last things he said to me last week was "Do you know if you're going to heaven?". I responded that I couldn't be sure but thought I led my life in a way that would grant admission. He looked me in the eyes and said, "That's not good enough. You have to know if you're going to heaven. The only way you'll know is to give your life over to Jesus' hands". Very profound words from a man who was at peace with dying. He laid back on the couch, looked at the ceiling and said, "I know I'm going to heaven". I believe him.

Thanks again.