GOSHEN —
Laurence Milton Horst, 96, a resident of the Gables at Greencroft, died Wednesday at Goshen Hospital.
Laurence was born on the windy Kansas plain Feb. 17, 1915. He was the welcome fifth child of Jacob and Anna Grabill (Beck) Horst. He grew up a hard worker on the farm with a love for singing and music. He experienced an early call to service in the local church and was ordained at the age of 21. He continued his education, pastored, taught and led the first Voluntary Service unit — always glad to be busy in the Lord’s work.
He met Marian Messner while both were teachers at Hesston College. They married in 1949 and their daughter, Ramona, was born while Laurence finished seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. There followed a life of service: from pastorates in Chicago and Evanston, Ill. to nine years in Ghana, West Africa, to an active retirement at Greencroft with multiple interim pastorates.
Laurence never met a stranger. He went through life with a twinkle in his eye, ready to lend a hand wherever needed. He saw his life as an adventure of service whether in school, leading VS units, teaching; being a missionary or pastor or interim pastor; or playing the harmonica with friends. It was all to bring glory to God.
He was preceded in death by Marian, his wonderful wife of 47 years, three sisters and two brothers.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Ramona and David Bailey, and two grandchildren, Jordan and Dinah Bailey.
Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Friday in the Koininia Room at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, and from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday.
A memorial service will take place at 3:30 p.m. Saturday at College Mennonite Church. Pastor Pamela Yoder will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be made to Greencroft Foundation or Mennonite Mission Network or College Mennonite Church.
Online condolences may be sent to yoderculpfuneralhome.com.
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