It was Wednesday morning January 31st here in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea. I was headed out the door to the mission base when I received the message from Connie’s sister…”Todd…please have Connie call me ASAP.”
Those kinds of early morning messages or phone calls are the ones that you pray you never receive – but they are a part of the process of life…
Since 2013, we have been praying for Connie’s brother Curt. The way he handled his diagnosis of cancer and the ensuing journey for the past 5 years have been an inspiration to all that have known him. He has been an incredible example of what I believe the writer of Hebrews was describing;
“Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 (NASB)
Curt has rallied so many times that we just knew he was going to once again, come through and be back on his farm with his family… but this time, the Lord had different plans…
God was in the midst of it all. I was so praying that we would be able to get Connie home in time to spend some precious moments with Curt before his home going. God answered our prayers!
So thankful for Jan Bell who has been helping us with travel arrangements for years. Within just 15 minutes, she had a flight booking arranged for Connie (requiring Connie to be checking in to a flight within 1 hour.)
Some 44 hours later, Connie was at Curt’s bedside and our prayers were answered, she arrived in time to share some very special moments together before he slipped into sleep and then into the arms of the One upon whom he has been fixing his eyes…Jesus.
Please commit to keep Connie, Curt’s wife Deanne, their kids and grand kids, parents, and the whole family in your prayers. We are human and separation brings grief, but the faith that comes through a personal relationship with Jesus, brings a peace which absolutely surpasses all human understanding… A peace because we know that this isn’t “Goodbye,” it’s simply… “See you tomorrow.”
More precious memories….
The service for the celebration of Curt’s life will be Saturday, February 10th in Meridian, Idaho at Ten Mile Christian Church at 3 pm.
Todd & Connie Lou...from Papua New Guinea...to you! 
To our dear precious friends, Connie Lou and Todd and family,
Our hearts are heavy for you in the news of the loss of your precious brother, Curt.
The battle has been won! Curt has won the victory! Oh, death where is thy sting?
Sounds, like your beloved brother finished the race strong. Praise be to God!
May your tender hearts be comforted deeply in the hope of heaven.
We were just talking about you yesterday at our church, Valleyview in Amarillo, TX. We met your friend, Dr. Stephanie Dilhman. She said she knew you from the field in Papua New Guinea. Stephanie and her husband are working in Cactus, Texas now.
Through the years and many miles between us, our hearts are still filled with joy when we speak of you. We will pray for you and Curt’s dear family. May the Lord be very near to you as you rest in His mighty love and power.
Mark and Nan Haworth
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Praying for you both doting this time. Glad Connie made it home in time to be with her brother. God’s still in control. Curt is with our Savior and will see him again’ Love going your way.
Chickie
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The memorial for Curt will be Saturday, January 10th in Meridian, Idaho at Ten Mile Christian Church at 3 pm.
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Thanks Ellen – I have edited the post and added this information. Praying for you and Dad.
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Prayers for peace and comfort are on their way.
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Prayers for all of you during this time. We are so sorry for your loss but know you will be with Curt in a glory some day. I am so glad Connie got to tell Curt goodbye. Love and prayers Rick and Paula
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I can remember all the times you shared about your brother Curt & asking for prayers & all the prayers that went up from Ridgecrest Nazarene Church & also in the people’s private prayers along with Doug & me. We are so very sorry to hear of his passing but also praise the Lord for his Home going to be with Jesus. He fought a long battle but in every picture I saw of him he always had a big smile. Praise the Lord that you were able to make it back to see him & again have quality time with him. Our prayers for you Todd & your whole family. God bless you with HIS perfect love. Your friends Sandy & Doug.
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We’re so sorry to hear of the sorrow you’re enduring right now. Isn’t it glorious to know that joy comes in the morning and our tears will be wiped away to allow us to serve Jesus still.
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Hi Connie and Todd,
Bill and I are so sorry to hear about the passing of your brother Curt!
Praise the Lord, that you, Connie were able to get back to the states and be with Curt before he went “Home”. I can’t imagine the pain you and his family have experienced.
I’ve been meaning to send you an email to thank you for the beautifully written email you sent my son Jensen in January, thanking him for his end of the year donation to your ministry. I know it touched Jensen and his new wife Mekaela! It was so sweet of you! Thank you friend.
We love you guys so much and keep you in our thoughts and prayers as you serve so faithfully oversees.
Looking forward to seeing you when you are back in the states in the Spring/Summer.
Love, Sherra and Bill
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I will be praying for Curts family and will bring it up for all to include them in my church…..First chuch of the Nazarene in Borger Texas
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Todd and Connie,
I am late in reading this. Oh my! What a blessing that God got Connie there in time for those important moments together. So precious!
I will certainly keep Connie and all your family in prayer. Curt looks and sounds like he was an amazing guy. I’m sure you will miss him tremendously.
Until you meet again, may God comfort your hearts,
Beth Vice Writing to help others find strength in God See what’s new on my blog, Epiphany: http://www.bethvice.blogspot.com Book info at Finding Strength in God: http://www.bethvicebookstore.blogspot.com
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Praying for you.
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Wonderfully said. Such sweet final moments and a life lived well for Christ! Praying for Connie and family.
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