Story from Angela

My husband Russ and I have known John and Ryane and their beautiful girls for many years.

We met in a financial class at Gateway Church. We all had a passion for getting out of debt. I remember we would have dinners at our home and their home to discuss our strategies of getting out of debt and of course life, faith and all that God was doing in our lives.

Time passed and we were all busy with day to day life and we had not seen the Moates except for an occasional ‘hello’ in passing at church.

My husband had a desire to play racquetball and went to our local recreation center. He did not know anyone that played but thought he would just go up there and try to find some people to play with or just hit the ball. I prayed that he would find some people to play with and John was there that day playing.

Of course, he was so welcoming to Russ and that was the start of them playing together 3-4 times a week for over 9 years and also having lunch together every Saturday. John was an answer to prayer!

I don’t think that I can ever remember John without a smile on his face. He was a great friend and had a way of making everyone feel special. He cared deeply about people whether he had just met you or had known you his whole life. He loved God with all of his heart. His love for his family exuded from every part of him.

John, you are missed and will be missed so much. Thank you for noticing and loving those around you.
My sincere condolences and prayers for Ryane and girls, Willow and Olivia.

Ryane, I cannot imagine all that you have walked through and all that you are still walking through each day. I feel like John is so proud of how you walked and are walking in faith and how your main concern was doing what he would have wanted.

Praying that God will provide all that you and your girls need each moment of every day, and you will feel His embrace and loving care.

Much love,
Angela