Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,
Our sister in Christ Joan Welke was called home to be with our Lord on November 8th, 2023, at the age of 86. Joan and her husband Lou have been members of Messiah for more than 25 years; in addition to attending worship faithfully, they have also helped welcome visitors as members of our Board of Evangelism.
We mourn with Lou, Joan's son & daughter-in-law Timothy & Jamie Lukas, and all of Joan's family and friends at her passing. But we also rejoice that Joan is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.
Joan's memorial service will be held at Reyers North Valley Chapel (2815 Fuller Ave NE, in Grand Rapids) on Monday, November 13th at 12 noon; Pastor Terry Hoese will officiate. Visitation will take place before the service from 10 am to 12 noon; a luncheon will also be held at Reyers following the service. Click here to view Joan's obituary online.
Please keep Lou, Tim & Jamie, and all those who knew and loved Joan in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.
Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our sister Joan during her earthly life, especially for calling her to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort the survivors who mourn her death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church
