Bozy & Shirley Budlong

Wayne & Kathy Johnson

Bozy, I want you to know what a privilege it was to have you and Shirley both be such an integral part of my youth. I admired the way you conducted your life and your dedication to serve others. One thing that stood out to me was the way you treated everyone equally and never showed any favoritism. In the Battalion I was so impressed that you demonstrated the same level of care and concern to the boys who came from the neighborhoods surrounding Hinson. I know that I would never have experienced a backpack adventure if it hadn't been for you and there is probably a good chance I may not have ever played fast pitch softball. One of my favorite snacks to this day is Ry-Krisp and cheese. Just about every time I have it I find my mind recalling an incident, a trip, a game, etc.from that time in my life. Thank You So Much For Being Such A Big Part Of It! Wayne Johnson

Timothy Johnstone

Bozy, Wayne's reflections certainly bring back wonderful memories of Wednesday night Battalion meetings and summer backpacking and softball. We were all your family - you laughed with us, disciplined us (not me of course), taught us, and loved us. I remember vividly being quite ill with pneumonia when I was 14 (1966) and in bed for a couple of weeks. You took time off of work to stop by to visit me at home and brought me a book to read. It was the perfect gift and a true reflection of how you treated all of us. Those acts of kindness, both large and small, were what made you so special. Thank you for the example of a life so wonderfully lived. Shirley, thank you for sharing him with us! Tim Johnstone

Jim Budlong

Dad, thanks for being such a great example for me and us brothers. I saw a consistency in your life that went beyond practicing your faith only on Sundays and Wednesday nights. Your leadership in the Hinson High school group as a sponsor with mom when I was very young, your work with the Battalion and Boy's Brigade, serving as usher, deacon, missions committee, etc at Hinson... The life skills you taught through the Brigade program along with going on mountain climbs, hikes and backpacking trips with so many young men... Also your leadership as a dad at home with us 4 crazy boys... I can always be thankful for you and mom sitting on either side of me as a buffer zone from Dan, Ken and Dave... :) Many mountain climbs and even family backpack trips helped me ever more appreciate God's amazing creation... Even reading psalms like Psalm 104 while out in the wilderness of Oregon put God's word to life. Your influence caused me to be willing to dedicate my life to the Lord's service. While working for Nike working as a volunteer with the Hinson high school group for some 17 years, then leaving my long-time job at Nike and serving now as a missionary here in Germany. And now your counsel as we talk long-distance about every-day life things. These are just a few things I can be thankful for, dad.

Jim Milliken

Hey Bozy, You are the best! We had great times together with Christian Service Brigade boys. Your influence on their lives has made a lasting impact. You and Shirley were the best of friends for Naydeen and me.

Hank Tomlinson

Bozy: we appreciate your love for the Lord, your family, and your unselfish and godly example. I remember, as a boy in Church, watching the deacons go forward for Communion, and I always think of you. This memory comes to mind when I hear one of the traditional hymns, especially, "The Church's One Foundation." It has been a delight to know you, Dave, my good friend, and Ken, Dan, and Jim, ministering in Germany. Looking back, I recall coming over to your house for a visit (usually to pick up Dave and hang out, or go to Hinson and play basketball). I still recall Dan's (1958 ??) Chevy on the driveway, and Mr. Dyke's beautifully polished Buick. And an elaborate insect collecting case you made for Dan. We look back at you and Shirley as a beacon on a hill and a delight to be around. Your example reminds us of a very special verse, Proverbs 18:10. We're sorry to miss the celebration but are certain you'll see many special friends, who've followed in your footsteps, with lots of warm handshakes, smiles, and hugs.

Philip Hall

Mr Budlong, It has been a blessing for me to have had your influence in my life. My memories are crystal clear of being brought home on Wednesday nights from "Boys Brigade" in a green W.T. Dyke van ( I don't quite remember having seat-belts in the back).The Lord always watched over us though, and still does today.Your calm sincere personality was always a virtue I greatly admired.Your family has always been one to model after.Thanks for being a major influence in my life. Phil Hall................. '

Linda MarcusSmith

I just wanted to take time to be SURE to let Bozy know that without the loving guidance of Shirley/Bozy and a few select other parents at Hinson....I would have been so lost. I learned how to know what true love is and how to show love. My family life was so awful...and the only normalcy I ever had was at Hinson. You have no idea how depressing my life at home was...and what a bright spot church was! I will never forget the kindness of Ken, his brothers and especially the loving guidance of Shirley and Bozy. One time Shirley came to my Mother daughter tea at HS. My own Mother was too far gone with alcoholism to get involved..but Shirley took time for me! Amazing how our God provides for our needs thru those like Bozy and Shirley who listen to the Lord! God bless all you do and say, Bozy and Family!!!

Ann Stump

Our family was so blessed to have such incredible friends. We grew up in an atmosphere where those who influenced us the most truly lived out their faith. Thank you for being such a wonderful example of serving the Lord with joyful hearts, loving your family and being such faithful and caring friends. We love and appreciate you! John & Ann Stump

Garry Morgan

Bozy, When I reflect on my growing up years, you are certainly at the top of the list of those who had a positive influence on my development. I learned a lot about Christian character just from being around you, and a lot about camping, backpacking and climbing, too. Thanks for all the time you sacrificed to build into the lives of the Brigade guys. I truly appreciate your input during those years (as I know many others do) and have benefited from it. Blessings in Christ, Garry Morgan

Carol Taule Searle

Bozy, I want to say thank you for all of the things you’ve done for me. Those years at Hinson gave me the foundation for my life. A lot of lessons learned came from the time you and Shirley spent with the youth group. The trips to the beach, mountains, milkshakes after church, camping on Memorial Day weekend, sledding - you weren’t just coaching the guys, you and Shirley were on the sidelines of my life encouraging me. You taught me that faith isn’t just Sunday and Wednesday night, passing an offering plate, communion or a bulletin, you reached out to those around your sons. I’m glad that included me. I watched you live your faith on a daily basis. You demonstrated your faith by investing in others. Your guiding principals of faith and family are the standard I set for myself although I didn’t realize it until a lot later in life. Carol (Taule) Searle

Sondra Dutra

I have such great memories of your family during our growing up years at Hinson. Your loving relationships were a wonderful model and I enjoyed the extended family of the Philathian Class. The youth activities that you led and participated in with us were foundational for our lives, helping us both spiritually and in our lives in general. THANK YOU for the numerous times you had way too many of us in the back of your car, taking us all home from Sunday night youth group. It is wonderful to be at Hinson with you again and continue to enjoy your strong spiritual example of service and devotion to the Lord. Thank you for your consistency, faithfulness and example for our lives.

ReeAnn McDonald - Kutcher

What a privilege to be included in the honoring of you two! I am eternally grateful for my 'Hinson Family'... so many wonderful memories, not the least of which are of your unconditional and sincere showing of God's love to me. I can still see Shirley's smiling face and hear her voice as she talks about her "chillins". I have fond memories of the times you accepted me into your home for a meal. I recall you had all boys and I felt a bit uncomfortable being the only girl...... yet very much at home and welcome. Bozy, I'll never forget your generosity in sharing your family prayer cards, which were read over and over again. Thank you both for allowing God to work through you to affect so many lives..... including mine!

Jeff Bachofner

So, Bozy as I look back and try to remember those years in Brigaders , I seem to have forgotten the details of 50 mile hikes with backpacks only slightly better than torture racks, overturned busses, and sleeping in the rain. In fact I seem to remember those times fondly now. I’m sure I remember that part of my life fondly because of the commitment you had to a bunch of whiny pre-adolescent boys and I would like to say Thank You. The time you and Jim spent with us kids was special and although I probably didn’t express it at the time, you meant a great deal to me. You and Shirley have been great friends to my family and will always be remembered. May God continue to bless you.

Marsh Sly

Bozy Budlong I especially remember the back pack trips you took us all on. The time we rolled a church bus off the Salmon River highway and still completed a 21 mile, 3 day back pack the same weekend. The trips into the Bull of the Woods Wilderness, Welcome Lakes, Big Slide Lake, The Mother Lode and the lookout tower on top of Bull of the Woods. I remember a little boy who went on one of your back pack trips, I think to Frying Pan Lake, his mom packed his pack for him. She did a pretty good job too. Put in pajamas, a wash cloth, hand towel, a change of underwear for each day, and I think a toothbrush and soap as well. Well when you and Jim Millican felt the weight of his pack you had it striped down to the basics. He was left with nothing but an empty pack, his sleeping bag and a jacket, and was given a bottle of maple syrup to carry in exchange for his useless load of personal items. I remember breakfasts over a campfire, cooking on what looked like washing machine lids, you can imagine where they came from, a WT Dyke special, I’m sure. Crispy fried bacon and burnt pancakes, all smothered in maple syrup. I’ve returned to Bull of the Wood over the years, found those hidden lakes off trail I dreamed about, like Beth Lake, Lake Lenore and Eucrama Lake with golden trout. Explored the copper mine shaft that goes deep into the side of the mountain below the peak that has water all summer, although I’m not too sure how safe the mine is with heavy metals and Giardia from bats, but I drank it to your good health and it sure beat going back to Spray Spring for water when I camped right up on top. Over the years I have continued to back pack and explore, the Cascades in Oregon, Washington and the Sierras in California. My family doesn’t cook on a camp fire anymore, it’s all done with a little stove and freeze dried food, or sleep in a cotton sleeping bag but the air is still just as fresh and the forest just as green and the sky just as blue as when you first took me out there. I thank you for that and a life time of adventures and discoveries I would not have had without you. Marsh Sly

Patty Maynard

Dear Bozy, You have been a blessing to me and my family for as long as we have known you. I love that your memories of my early days at Hinson are clearer than my own…and that you enjoy reminiscing with me about the Christmas when a frightened 5 year old could only make it to the front of the sanctuary with the love offering because you walked alongside her. I also love that you touched the lives of Jamie and Rachel during their teen years…that they could get acquainted with a kind man who genuinely cared about them and invested time in them. Thank you for being a man of integrity and for beautifully modeling what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus. Patty Maynard

John Tidswell

Bozy, as I read everyone else’s comments, I kept thinking, “Yep, I agree.” You’ve been so many things to so many of us. You led me into God’s word and challenged me to critically consider how my life squared with it. You filled a “Dad” void in my life during my high school and college years. You ably trained so many of us boys in Battalion to take on leadership roles. You ignored OSHA and let us decimate each other in British Bulldog…and you were right in there with us! You took us backpacking and fishing, mountain climbing and snowshoeing, swimming and competing in Brigade track meets, you got us to do “about faces,” and really got involved in where our lives were headed. Under your mentoring, I learned to grow up and follow and love Jesus. Last Sunday, one of our pastors asked, “Where would our lives be without Jesus?” As I thought about how God has used you in my life, I got to thinking, “Where would my life be without you, Bozy?” Thank you for caring and giving so much of yourself. –John Tidswell

Skip Mitchell

Dear Bozy & (Shirley,who we know is looking down from above.) Shay & I delight to share again with the two of you, how much you have been treasured in our lives. I can still remember coming fresh out of Seminary to begin my 1st ministry as Youth Pastor at Hinson. We met you and Shirley, even then, working with the Teens. The two of you were our "Dad & Mom" in the ministry. You'll never know how much we learned from you. And the Memories - They live on & on.....The trips to the Coast, the Mts, the break-in at the snow cabin, the fishing, the camping, the games, the Praying together, the Heartaches, the joys, the breakthroughs, the teens who became our pride and joy, the visits at Sisters, etc, etc, etc. Truly our lives were changed for the Glory of God by the two of you taking your time for us. Thank you both! All our love & Prayers, both now and always. Skip & Shay

Ray Roy

Hi Bozy, I want to express my appreciation to you for the great role model you have been and continue to be to me of a man who loves Christ and really enjoys His creation. I have watched you back in your softball playing days and then as you led the Brigade and had such an influence on those boys, so many of them now fine Christian young men. What great memories welcoming you to Bull of the Woods where I was the fire lookout and sharing with the guys about the area and our duties to help protect the Mr Hood Forest. Also, you and Shirley were a wonderful model young couple to Marietta and me in the early years of our married life together. We thank the Lord for you and always enjoy our visits through the years, be they altogether too brief. May the Lord continue to bless you in the days ahead. Ray Roy

Timothy Peterson

Bozy and Shirley: The words “joy” and “faithfulness” capture for me the ministry of acceptance, encouragement, and care you both have had in the lives of so many people (myself included) over the years, and bear witness to how you have intentionally lived out “life together.” Regardless of situation or circumstance you always bring a sweet aroma and vibrancy to the path you have followed through effervescent smiles and warm sincere engagement towards others. You expressed to us as youth delight and openness in interacting with us, in engaging in the substance of our lives, and in giving us space and support as we needed (even when we did not realize it or seek it). Your faithful consistency to living out God’s call in your lives and to your personal convictions were equally evident whenever we were with you; hiking through the “wildness” of nature, at play on the ball field, Wednesday night Brigade, an occasional visit to repair the washer, or being in the warmth and comfort of your home for an evening gathering. You both have always demonstrated how to live centered in the present, with a full commitment to God by serving others with grace and humility. Thank You

Gary Radmacher

I am so grateful for this opportunity to express a portion of the gratitude I have for a man and a woman who are great in the kingdom of God. When I was about 15 or 16, my parents were completing their will, and asked my sister and me a difficult question: Should they both be killed, who would we each want to live with? My answer? The Budlongs! That's how much I looked up to you, respected you, and frankly, enjoyed being with you. You truly loved all the kids whom you served in ministry; no one could question that. I can't say that I remember any specific words or sayings that you spoke to me, but I do remember vividly the way you showed me that you cared about me. Your actions clearly said: "God loves you, and I love you." Thanks for teaching me to play softball, build a campfire, pack a backpack, be a leader, and so many other things. Thanks for helping me complete the Herald of Christ; it helped to prepare me for so much that was to come. But most of all, thanks for getting me started on a lifetime habit of reading the scriptures and writing what I learn as I seek to listen to the voice of God. I look forward to the day when we all stand before Jesus, and I can rejoice with so many others as we hear our Savior say, "Bozy, you did a great job! Enter into the joy of your Master."

Mark Daniels

Hey Bozy, wanted to join in and say thank you for all that you did for me as I grew up. whether it was battalion on wed. night, hiking in the woods, going to Blackwood brothers concerts, teaching me to play softball you were always there for everyone and always had patience with me. Remember when Dan and I took that washing machine apart? the one you brought to battalion to show us guys how they worked, and Dan and I took out every screw and bolt in the whole machine, you were pretty awesome, you called me the next day and asked me if I knew how to put it back together, of course I had no clue. That's one of the many memories I have growing up with your family and ours. Thanks a lot for all you and Shirley have done throughout the years! Mark Daniels

Sid Hillier

Bozy, thinking back over all of the great memories with you and Shirley, Dan, and the whole Budlong family, it brings a huge smile to my face and heart. When I think of all the times during Philathian Class camping trips when I came by looking for the "4th meal" and you guys always made sure I was well fed! Thinking of all the cold creeks and ocean swimming, flag football games, hikes into the beautiful wilderness, Wednesday night rides in the WT Dyke van to Buckaroo hockey games, and the great times we had at Battalion, it strikes me as amazing how much Godly influence one individual had on the lives of so many of us Hinson and neighborhood kids. Even more personally, you were the believer who welcomed me to receive Christ into my heart after Dr. Anderson made the altar call and you helped me with my prayer. Thank you so much for being so available, so willing to sacrifice time for us kids, and for being such a great example of a Christian testimony for all of the people you encountered at church, through work and in your life. Looking forward to seeing you on Saturday.

Barby Radmacher

Dear Bozy and Shirley: Well as I look back fondly with super memories of the first time I ever came to Hinson, back in the summer of 1967, both of you sure had a part in creating those wonderful times! From the trips on the yellow bus to the fun camp outs to Pelton Dam, Cannon Beach, Santiam Pass, The Firs Chalet.... you truly cared about all of us, just like we were your own kids! I remember too, how you would always open up your home for gatherings and the fun planning meetings we had over at your house...Shirley was so loving and so kind...she was always the perfect ‘hostess with the mostest’ and always had such a sweet spirit and truly was a godly example to all of us girls. Bozy, I still enjoy ‘seeking you out’ at Hinson whenever we visit Portland and just love to talk about the good old days...laughing about fun times, sharing about your beloved Shirley and talking about Ken and his family...so fun, in a way we really are related as Jan, Kurt, Melissa, and their families are ours too, plus Shirley’s side with the Plancich/Dyke relatives. It is always fun to share good times and to laugh...in fact, YOU have the most infectious laugh of all...I can hear it as plain as ever right this moment!! Always cheerful, always encouraging...never a bad thing to say about anyone....you too, are a very godly man and a super ‘father figure’ to all of us young people who were in the Youth Group! May the Lord continue to bless you beyond your imagination as you have truly been a blessing to me and many others over the years! I love you bunches and feel so so blessed to have known both you and Shirley! (II Timothy 4: 7,8) Barby (Barb Krell)

Joan Segrin

I can't remember a time in my life when you haven't been a part of it! Thank you for being a source of stability, encouragement and acceptance. You have modeled servant-hood and have put hands and feet to words like "faith in God", "compassion", "love" and "generosity". Your authenticity and enthusiasm for life is an inspiration. Thank you for loving your family, being faithful to Shirley and for sharing yourself with us! Scott and Joanie Segrin

Jim Bull

Bozy, your calm, consistent leadership has been an example for many of us. When decisions needed to be made, you always demonstrated a cool, collected demeanor that made it easy to follow your leadership. Your faithfulness to the Lord through serving so many years at Hinson in various ways is both appreciated and admirable. You showed us young men what it means to be a godly man through your words, actions, and leadership. Thanks for giving of yourself over the years. Your fingerprints are on my life, as well as many others, for which I am thankful to the Lord, and thankful to you for leading the way. Your common sense approach to life, your example as a father, and the way you modeled marriage to us have been tremendous examples. May the Lord richly bless your life for the rest of your days, until you hear the ultimate honor from the Lord Himself: "Well done, good and faithful servant!" Jim Bull

David Hughes

Bozy, I'm the kid who grew up across the street from your family. My home life across the street wasn't very good, so the time spent at your home was a great escape. Playing with the train table (mostly with Dan), shooting baskets in the driveway (sometimes in Shirley's roses), watching the "3 stooges" were some of the highlights. You transported and got me involved in the weekly Battalion meetings, which led to basketball games and softball teams that played a big role in making me feel good about myself. Going on camping trips to Cape Lookout and Battalion backpacking trips were some of the other things I was able to do because of your caring mentorship. My junior year in high school you encouraged me to go out for baseball and came to one of my games and watched as I got a hit. Your coming to the game to support me has always been a special memory. People have told me that I turned out pretty good considering I did not having a mother or father growing up. Bozy, you and Shirley were definitely two very special people that made that possible. Thank You Very Much! Enjoy your special day, you deserve it! Dave Hughes

Steve Morgan

Bozy, Thank you for your example of many, many years of faithful service. This past year, I helped prepare some lessons for the elementary aged kids at Hinson for Wednesday nights. It was a lot of work, just to prepare a few lessons. But, you planned and organized and prepared week after week and year after year. Thank you for your example even serving at MAC Camp while in your 80's. Reading these comments reminds me that you have had a ministry into the lives of many of us for many years. Thank you. Steve Morgan.

James Strutt

Dear Bozy, Our observance of your devotion to others---particularly your work with the Brigade has been an inspiration to us as well as so many others. I worked with you for a short period of time in Brigade and found you always prepared and eager to win boys to Christ, then follow through in their lives with fun things like hikes etc. to keep them on the right path. Personally too we have many wonderful memories of you & Shirley through the years---like---double dating in your Model A, wedding chases that would put us all in jail if done today, your marriage, your kids, great times together on trips, our time in Hawaii and then of course being neighbors for years. It is with great joy that we honor you both at this time. Jim & Shirley Strutt

Dan Budlong

Dad, you and Mom have always been a great example for others to see, and attempt to follow. Growing up and just watching both of you, I learned not just about right and wrong, but kindness, patience, honesty, faith, and how to make or fix things. You encouraged my interests, and have me guidance. You were always there for us. I saw your passion to help others. There was a sense of excitement getting ready for Wednesday nights. You had done your prep work, and figured out some special things to do. Maybe you had a film to show, or maybe a special guest to tell about their hobby or how they make a living. And of course a wild game to play. You cared about everyone that came. When you gave a van-load of kids a ride home, you even turned off the volume on the radio when the beer commercials came on during the hockey game. As young boys you helped mold us to be better people for the rest of our lives. Thank you. Your son, Dan

Mark Stauffer

Bozy, I guess I can call you Bozy now, I remember when you instructed me to call you Mr. Budlong during the years of Brigade. You were friends with my parents before I ever came along and that was what they called you, that's OK, I understood. I remember when my Mom Shirley, worked with your Shirley, in the Nursery at Hinson. Eventually you were the leader in Stockakers and then moved on to Brigade (Battalion). Memories of Stockade are pretty thin but memories from Brigade are plenty. You probably had to sit on me a few times along with Jim Milliken, I don't why, I was a pretty good kid wasn't I. Fond memories of my first major back pack trip (12 years old) was Bonniville/Eagle Creek up to Watum Lake, the first day (7.5 miles) was a blast, the second day 6 miles straight up hill, pack was killing me, I quit (sat down) and wanted a helicopter to come and get me, said I would never go again. We went many more times after that all over everywhere, Larch Mountain middle of winter with snowshoes, and of course Salmon River the infamous bus over the cliff thing (it was a cliff wasn't it), Mosquito's galore at Mowhich Lake (8 lakes basin Santiam Pass) and many, many more. I would never miss Wednesday nights at church, enjoyed all the activities, especially bench ball in the gym (Kit Blackwelder was killer and so was Ken). You coached us in fast-pitch softball the beginning a long and illustrious career, well sort of, I did play until I was 40. As I look back, you were definitely a major influence in my early life in a lot of different ways and remain a good friend to this day. Thanks for everything!!!! Mark Stauffer

Ginny Knight

Dear Bozy, “thank you” seems so inadequate in attempting to express my appreciation for your and Shirley's devotion to the Hinson youth group throughout the years. As I fondly recall the youth group and its activities/adventures of so long ago, there’s not a single memory that does not include you and Shirley. Thank you for being such unfailingly dedicated leaders, for providing listening ears and wise counsel, for prayers lifted up on behalf of all of us, and for always freely giving of yourselves and of your time. You and Shirley were the best and set such an amazing example for all of us! I pray that our Lord will continue to bless you. Ginny (Wolf) Knight

Terry Daniels

When i think of general Budlong (after all these years he must have risen in rank) the first thing that comes to mind is Christian Service Brigade. He was a great leader to so many young men from so many different backgrounds. His patience was amazing. I had enough trouble being patient raising my two sons and how he did it with 20 or 30 boys I`ll never understand. Having said this, he did some things that I would have to call crazy. We used to go on weekend backpacking trips and one thing that set him apart from the rest of us was his love of swimming after a long hike. This may not sound so crazy but. he likes really cold water , the kind that has snow drifts all around the body of water he chooses to swim in and to increase his enjoyment, how about a shelf of ice extending two or three feet from shore for him to dive over. I don't know about you but that seems kinda crazy to me . In closing I want to say you helped me grow up in many facets of my life, thank you so much . TERRY DANIELS

Myrtle Edwards

Bozy, Thank you and Shirley for your help to us in our missionary work in Hawaii. We served 5 churches, winning many souls to Christ. You were so faithful in sending out our prayer letters. Nothing done in name of Christ is ever lost. May God's wonderful blessings be yours in the days ahead. Mahalo nui loa and our prayers, Dexter & Myrtle Edwards

Sheldon Philips

Bozy, What a pleasure to remember with great joy a very formative time in my life - Christian Service Brigade. The pack trips were the best. The Jamborees were some of the most fun. I still remember one night in the middle of the Mt. Hood National Forest. It was 2:00 AM on a moonless night. The stars were brilliant, but it was only 28 degrees. You woke me out of a warm sleep because it was time to walk guard duty. I can still remember sitting by the fire and hearing elk walking and snorting nearby. The cool part was that we were having a real conversation - a grown man and a twelve year old kid. You had that great ability to engage us kids with patience, understanding, and encouragement. All of the men of Brigade were men of character, true men of God, and you were their leader and example. Thank you for an incredible example of Christlikeness and true love for the people you met and worked with. We love you and look forward to spending Eternity with you and your sweet wife Shirley.

Diana Blakeley

Bozy- When I think back on my life one of the things that stands out the most is the time spent at Hinson with you and your family. What a great example of Christian love you have given to us over the years. Not just the fun trips that we took, but just knowing that if we ever needed someone to be there for us you and your wife were people that we could turn to. Having people like you in our lives gave us a sense of security that was not fully recognized or identified until we were older. You helped to shape us into the kind of people that we are today. It was like having the Lords arms wrapped around you. I thank you and Praise the Lord for having you, your wife and family in my life. God Bless you - Diana(Bonaduce)Blakeley

Dave Budlong

Dad, Thank you for bringing me up strongly as a "Lover of the Truth". I didn't always appreciate you and Mom when I was growing up, but you never quit on me and that's why I don't quit,even when I want to.I've learned the hard way, through the mistakes of my youth, that It's better not to have secrets and I'm looking forward to the day when God reveals the truth about each one of us and Church leaders and followers find out that I followed the teaching of my Christian parents and lay person Sunday School teachers. I tried to follow in your foot steps at Hinson teaching, coaching and working with children and youth most every day and night of the week, but was understood to be trying to work my way to Heaven by a pastor leaning on his own understanding. I believe in the Bible and it teaches the opposite, that Jesus Christ is the Truth and the Only way to Heaven, not by works. Yet I was asked to be in Evangelism class 4 times, instead of 2 by that same pastor and when I missed 1 class out of all 4 sessions was scolded. I received at least 100 compliments and thank yous from people, because of my ministry, but the pastors said I had a selfish ministry, because I didn't ask for donations. I turned in an expense voucher to the church office and was never asked to again. 10 people complained to pastors about me and the 10th said I had a moral problem with children, because I wrote a silly note. Now the pastors had the Church bully against me and fired me from teaching. What? I had never done any thing immoral towards a child, but it was called potential. I refused human counseling and "Only Trust Him" as my favorite hymn says. I told the pastor who was intimidated by the bully " I'm not a cripple and don't need a crutch and every one of my accusers is going to fall into sexual sin and not me" and so far I've been right. God knows how much I love to prove my accusers wrong about me and how much I'd hate to lose my strength like Sampson did. After God took Ken off the mountain up to Heaven, I tried 4 times (in person) to get together with the former pastor to reconcile. He put me off each time and then lied about it. He had been fired when the Truth had come out about the bully turned hypocrite turned cry baby, but his foolish followers had forced out the 1 Pastor who put the Truth ahead of his own popularity. Dad the answer to your question, "Would I make Hinson a habit?". Only if the pastor would put the Truth ahead of his own popularity, could I be happy at Hinson again. Thanks for courage to stand, Dave