Loss of Brother in Christ and a Friend “Good and Faithful Servant”

Yesterday, we lost Dave Gustave, a Brother in Christ.
Thursday March 5th. 2009 3:05 PM.

Services – When – Wednesday March 11th. 10AM @ Calvary Refuge, HB, CA
Church Office 714 891-9405

More Photos here

Those that new him or knew “of him”, understood that Dave did NOT let others know of his pain and struggles in life.  I got to know Dave early from Calvary Huntington Beach early Mexico mission trips to Santa Marta Orphanage, run by Kay and Bill (I recall).

Just about anything that you can think of doing at Santa Marta, Dave had his hand in it, making what ever he put his hands on the best it could be.

Santa Marta was some 11 plus years ago and during that time I had no idea of his illness up until around 3 years ago.  Linda, Dave’s wife, faithfully stand by his man, dealing with his daily health challenges as a Team (the definition of Marriage).

I found out about Dave’s health challenges by accident when Dave invited me to  come by his house to pick up some software for the Church. At the time he was tired and could only be up for a few minutes and when I asked he did not voluntarily give up his issues. With a little prodding, Linda and Dave sheepishly explained his bout with Leukemia (learn here).  I do not know much about Leukemia, but what I know is that it is blood related and it drains the “get up and go” right out of you and more…

Dave was more determined to NOT let his illness stop him in any way. He was a ROCK! Dave would get up and go even when his body clearly said ”NO” please rest me.

Over the years, The Lord was seriously watching over him and used him as a vessel to grow the our church, Refuge, Calvary Chapel Huntington Beach, which was Dave’s way of spreading the word of God wherever he was involved or whomever he talked to.

Dave and I last worked together up until a year or so ago, when we were building out the Refuge High School area.  I am sure any that if you were around would have heard… ” Well ask Dave first” cause he was running that part or had plans on that…”

Dave, of course, was always directing, organizing, and or working side-by-side with others.  He always took on ”mini- projects” and got involved when others chose not to or nobody volunteered.

In life, as Christians, we do not know why the Lord took him now nor do we know why he takes other people in our lives.  Rest assured, that beyond a shadow of a doubt, Dave was truly  “A Good and Faithful Servant” Mathew 25:21

In my life, Dave became a source of personal inspiration, leaving me to live by “Unto The Lord” to get through life. Linda, Dave’s wife has faithfully stood by his side through it all and our prayers go out to her and the family.

We will miss you Dave, and we encourage all who read this and knew

To all that new Dave … Post your personal experiences and comments on how Dave touched your life and others.

More Photos here

Eric