A tribute to Donald H. Kevern... A Tribute to Don By John Leece It’s probably not common to have a best friend that is 30 years older than you. But, then again, Don Kevern is anything but common. His uncommon kindness, generosity and love changed my life and his example guides me each day. I know I am not alone. If each person Don has mentored or helped by his love and generosity were asked to stand, there would be very few who would remain seated. We all have stories about how this incredible saint of God made a difference in our lives by his words, his actions and, sometimes, simply by his presence. How many lunches has this man paid for? How many sorrows has he listened to, how many wounds has he soothed? How many young men has he been a second father to? How many couples began their life together with Don close at hand? How many were comforted by his gentle words or one of his poems at a funeral? How many former students have come back to “Mr. K” for wisdom and help? The list stretches on and on. You probably have memories flooding your mind. But I want to share just three of the gifts Don gave to me. You may be able to relate. 1. He believed in me. When I was a 23 year old kid applying to be youth pastor at Clarkston UMC, Don was the first one to take me under his wing. He was on the committee that hired me and my suspicion is he was a strong advocate on my behalf. Looking back, I’m not sure why. I didn’t know much. I was straight out of college and as I sat in the church parlor in my suit and carrying a briefcase, I must have looked like a kid playing dress up. But he saw something in me, something I didn’t even see in myself. He invested in my potential. He mentored me and challenged me and, always, he loved me. Don’s belief in me gave me confidence and I began to believe in myself. I would not be the man I am today if not for Don. 2. He told me the truth. For all of his kindness, Don was not one to hold back on his opinion. If I was being foolish or full of myself, Don would tell me. Sometimes not so gently. But it was his honesty that made his affirmation all the more meaningful. Don was a straight shooter. He called it as he saw it. He was, as Jesus described Nathaniel, “A man without guile.” 3. He was a true friend. When I was sick, he visited me. When I was down, he made me laugh. When I really needed a favor, Don’s reply was always, “Of course.” There was never a time I was back in Michigan where I did not set aside a day to be with Don. I’m so thankful that this past summer we shared a two hour lunch at, where else, Big Boy. Just the two of us. When I got married, Don flew to Atlanta and was the master of ceremonies for our wedding reception. When our daughter was born, he gifted Kenzie with the last quilt that Chris made, one that remains on her bed today. He was the first to contribute to Kenzie’s college fund. Don and I shared some wonderful times and crazy adventures. I am richer because I call him friend. Don was famous for his poems and his poetry almost always reflected his faith in Jesus Christ. I close this tribute with one such poem of my own. As Don approached the heavenly gates His smile grew wide with wonder Jesus stood to welcome him With a voice as deep as thunder Arms open wide, he took Don in In a warm and sweet embrace The savior he had always loved Welcomed him face to face There was a twinkle in Don’s eyes again It was one you could not miss Because just behind his Savior Don saw his beloved Chris With joy they danced and sang What a wonderful day was this It was a sweet reunion They could not help but kiss His Mom and Dad were up there too With friends a mile wide And so many who surrounded him Thanked Don for being their guide Laughter shook the heavens Bliss was all around Love was the language spoken Hate could not be found We may mourn our loss today But for Don we celebrate This man of love and service Stands at Heaven’s Gate There is work left here for us to do Though Don is up above Let’s carry on his legacy In faithful lives of love - John Leece, for my mentor and friend
Posted on: Fri, 12 Dec 2014 02:46:18 +0000
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