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Paul Eugene Giesbrecht

1957 - 2009

Paul Eugene Giesbrecht obituary, 1957-2009

BORN

1957

DIED

2009

Paul Giesbrecht Obituary

Paul Eugene Giesbrecht 1957 - 2009 Paul Eugene Giesbrecht was born on April 29, 1957, in Fresno, California and died on October 17, 2009. Dr. Paul Giesbrecht's Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 24, at 3:00 p.m., at Olive Drive Church, 5500 Olive Drive, Bakersfield, CA. He was born in Fresno and grew up in Bakersfield, graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1975. He went on to college at Biola University, where he met the love of his life, Sheryl. The couple moved to Bakersfield in 1983 where Paul worked as a teacher, handyman, jack-of-all trades, but his true calling was as Pastor Paul. Paul loved being a dad. He was an enthusiastic father to his daughter Sarah and son Ben, involved in coaching their soccer teams and cheering at NHS football games. A dedicated husband, Paul sat by his wife's bedside as she endured six months of chemotherapy. The couple pursued their post graduate education through Summit Bible College. Paul received a Master's of Theology and a Doctorate of Theology. Paul was serving as Chief Operations Officer for International Christian Ministries USA. He loved to play practical jokes, encouraging people to look at the bright side and even produced his own stand-up comedy night. Pastor Paul is preceded in death by his father, Ben Giesbrecht and step-father, Del Robnett. Paul is survived by his cherished wife, Sheryl Giesbrecht; daughter, Sarah and husband Matt Hunter; and son, Ben Giesbrecht. He is also survived by his mother, Miriam Giesbrecht Robnett; sisters, Sheryle and Marlene. Viewing will be held at Greenlawn Northeast, on Friday, October 23, from 4 p.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday, October 24, from 8 a.m.-12 p.m.. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to International Christian Ministries www.icmusa.org. Greenlawn Mortuary

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Published by Bakersfield Californian on Oct. 21, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
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Kevin Ormonde

October 15, 2024

Paul,
Hard to believe it´s been 15 years since you finished your race. A few months ago I was back in West Africa and it all started with our trips many years ago. Well done my friend.

Kevin Ormonde

October 17, 2010

Paul, I think of you often my friend, our trips to Africa together, Onemeal and you swinging my kids around in circles, you are missed my friend, until we meet again

Mark Bradshaw

May 28, 2010

Today, I just read in the Biola magazine about Paul's passing last October. I am so sorry for your loss. Paul and I were good friends at Biola, sharing many good times. I knew him better as "Rock". He was always the prankster. For the past 30 years I've told the story to family and friends about the time Rock and his friend Ernie played the part of TV cops Starsky and Hutch. His car looked just like the one on TV, and the three of us cooked up a prank on a date of mine. Rock and Ernie were to pull the two of us over in some quiet, secluded area around Biola and "rough" me up, then "arrest" me. It didn't go quite as planned. With lights flashing , they stopped my car in a busy neighborhood, and when they pretended to beat me up, my date hit the horn hard, started praying loudly to God for help, and people started coming out of their houses. We got out of there quickly before the real cops showed up. Many, many years have gone by since then. We re-connected a couple years ago through Facebook. I write these words with a heavy heart, but we can be assured that "Rock" is in a much better place with the Rock of Ages.

Trudy Wise

May 13, 2010

Dear Sheryl,
I so miss Paul. I think of his smile and how his love for Christ radiated to me and others. He was light to a dark world as we all should be.Love to you, Sheryl. Trudy

Rich Adkins

April 12, 2010

Paul,

I miss you greatly. I have been thinking alot about you the last several weeks- staring at your picture and replaying all the precious moments we spent together. You were the brother I never had. You were my father figure- everything I always wanted. I miss your laugh. I miss your insight. I miss your creative ideas. I miss our holiday conversations. You were always there for me without qustion. I will miss growing old with you and having you there for my kids and wife. They loved you so much. I am so thankful for you and take solace in knowing that I will see you again. Thank you my brother, for touching my life in more ways than you could actually know.

Love your brother-in-law,

Rich

Fr. Joseph Chaffee

December 7, 2009

Our deepest condolences to Sheryl and Ben and the rest of the Giesbrecht family. We only recently learned of this tragedy in the family, and will keep them all in our prayers.

St. George Greek Orthodox Church,

Gail Weide

November 24, 2009

Sheryl (and family) just wanted to offer my deepest sympathy to you in loss of your husband. May you find comfort in the arms of our Lord and Savior.

Sheryl, you were our speaker at our women's retreat in AZ in 2008 and touched all our lives very deeply. The ladies in AZ are holding you in our thoughts and prayers.

May Paul's memory always be a blessing to you.

Gail M. Weide
Women's Retreat Coordinator, AZ

Dixie McAlister

November 10, 2009

Paul:
A life well lived! Paul's service was what most of "us" hope for! A life well lived...I laughed and the tears flowed to... at Paul's service. The service showed cased the whole family in a beautiful way "LOVE" in action! Paul's life leaves a legacy....that will live on!
We didn't know Paul well, but we was blessed to see the love Paul had for his wife,Sheryl and how proud he was of her, as we watched Paul when Sheryl spoke, as a speaker for Christ! To us that spoke loudly of Paul! Love was written on his face and in his words after wards! Paul lives on in the many hearts He touched for Christ and the many people Paul made laugh...refreshing them for the Good race! And the love for his family continues in their hearts and beyond! To God The Glory!
Love and prayers for Paul's family. Michael and Dixie

Jennie Claus

November 6, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Cindy Gilliam- Myer

October 26, 2009

Paul,

Touch many with the word and insights to the bible.

He will be missed.

Cindy Gilliam - Myer

Allen & Belva Warkentin

October 25, 2009

Dear Miriam,
The Memorial Service was a wonderful tribute to Paul. We learned so much from the various people who shared about their experiences with him. We were impressed with Ben being part of the service, and also your daughters relating some fun times as kids together.
Paul was really being used by God to inspire and challenge (men in particular, we learned) to a greater and deeper life with our Lord. But the most touching of all was to hear how much he was like his dad Ben -- but multiplied with his own style and personality.
We enjoyed the video about his life, with the little extra "The Balloon." We'd like to have a copy of the video of the memorial service to share with our family, if possible.
We love you and pray that God will supply you, your family and loved ones with the ability to face the days ahead without Paul's presence and influence.

john heideman

October 25, 2009

Sheryl,
What a wonderful celebration of Paul's life yesterday. I was torn between times in the service of being extremely proud to have known Paul, and laughing out loud at how crazy he was. He truly "Got it", and wore his faith on his sleeve every day. I am sure he would say that you played a huge role in developing and carrying out his mission on earth. I will miss Paul greatly, but am so honored to have worked a short time by his side at ODC.
Blessings!
John Heideman

Ken Frech

October 24, 2009

Sheryl,

Chris and I were shock to hear of Paul's passing. Paul and you have been such an encouragement to us personally and to our ministry. Our prayers are with you and the family.
Ken & Chris Frech

Elaine Scott

October 24, 2009

Sheryl, Sarah & Ben,
Our hearts go out to you over the loss of Paul. I look forward to the day when we all will be reunited. What a tremendous witness for Christ Paul has always been. The Christian community has truly lost a tremendous witness for Lord. Go out and tell the world of my Glory: Paul always did so. My heart breaks for each of you at this horribly sad time. Many memories of our Longfellow days have surfaced and I Praise God of each of those memories. I love you Sheryl! Lord Bless!
Elaine & the Scott family.

Jim and Rachel We3don

October 24, 2009

Sheryl, Rachel amnd I are keeping you and the famuily in prayer. You and Paul have made impacts in our lives for Jesus that we could not even count them all. We just want you to know how much we love you and know you will experience special graces from our Lord that you have never known.

In Jesus our Lord,

Jim and Rachel Weldon

Mary Meyer

October 24, 2009

Dave and I send you our love. Our hearts are with you and have been with you all week. We grieve with you over the loss of Paul and we rejoice with you for his life. He blessed us as he did so many. Your commitment and love for each other was an inspiration. I know you are wrapped in our Father's everlasting arms, I pray you can feel them and gain strength.
Heart to heart,
Mary and Dave Meyer

Sharon Mullin

October 24, 2009

Sheryle and family:
I was sadden to hear of Paul's passing over, but rejoiced too that he will be with his Savior that he loved so much. I know he heard " Well done faithful servant with he was greeted Jesus.
My prayers to you and family for strength to get throught these coming days, weeks and months, but remember Paul is never gone. He is with you at all times in your hearts and minds.

He will be missed at the Bakersfield Toy Run this year, as he was a bright light at event. His love with shine on for many years to come.

Sharon Mullin

kathi wagner

October 24, 2009

To the Giesbrecht family, I am so sad to here of the passing of your husband and father. I lisened to him on KAXL radio often. He would always be so uplifting. I was doing my houseword today and heard he had passed away. It made me so sad but I know.he is with the Lord. My prayer are with you all. Kathi Wagner-Taft

October 23, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family after your loss.

Oronoz Family

Bob and Peggy Nestor

October 23, 2009

We learned of Paul's homegoing today and our hearts are saddened. We knew Paul lots of years ago when he was a teenager. We rejoice that Paul was a believer in the Lord Jesus. Being such makes Heaven sure. We pray for his wife, children, and mother and sister.

Bob and Peggy Nestor

Randy Hart

October 23, 2009

Sheryl, Sarah and Ben. I was so saddened by Paul's passing. We lived across the street and watched our kids grow up together. I was so terrible with tools, Paul was always there to bail me out. When I was going through my divorce, Paul was there to listen and pick me up when I was down. I hope he knew how much he meant to me. Your a strong family who has faced their share of adversity. I know you will get through this sad time. My prayers are with you.

Allison Chapman

October 23, 2009

Dear Sheryl and family...words can't express our sadness for you at this time..we are praying for you...Paul was so good to my dad...and was such a great friend during his illness..what a blessing...I can just see my dad in Heaven taking Paul around to all the people from heaven that are there...Love and prayers....Allison Chapman and family...(Sam's Daughter)

Josue Tien

October 22, 2009

My sincere condoleances to ou paul's family. I attended his men's meeting a Olive Drive Church, and I did njoy it. He as reat pastor and leader! My thoughts an prayers are with you family of Paul. Josue Tien(Burkna Faso)

Leroy Hooge

October 22, 2009

I was stunned to hear from my daughter, Heidi, of the accident that took Paul from this world. I know his presence will be greatly missed.
I pray for Sheryl, Ben & Sarah, his family and friends. Leroy Hooge.

Hollie Egland

October 22, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Gary,Cheryl,Tyler Moseley

October 22, 2009

Sheryl,Ben&Sarah,
We were so sorry to hear the news of Paul's accident. He had such a sense of humor, and so sure of himself. I can see him sitting with Sam Mills, trying to decide how to keep "One Meal" going. His Men's breakfast was a blessing for the Residents of West Care that Jason brought each time to help them know the Lord. We will miss him.

October 22, 2009

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We have many great memories of your family when Ben and our son, Danny, played soccer together those many years ago. Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with your family.

Trent and Pam Kite
Silt, CO

Gerry Goodman

October 22, 2009

Dear Sheryl, Ben and Sarah, Our church family so enjoyed Paul's preaching and they will sorely miss him until that day we are all reunited. The prayers of the congregants and the women in KRV are with you. May our Jesus lift you up and be your Prince of Peace.
Pastor Gerry and Colleen, FBC Lake Isabella.

Patricia Henson

October 22, 2009

Sheryl and Family, Please know that you are surrounded by love at this time and that Paul is at peace with our Heavenly Father. I know words cannot ease the sorrow that you feel but may you find comfort through prayer and the love expressed by your Christian family.

October 22, 2009

Sheryl, Sarah, Ben, I am so sorry to hear about Paul. I have missed you all very much. He was a joy in Sunday School. I had so much fun with him. He always had us laughing. You are all in my prayers.
Irene(Hinrichs) Soileau

Mandee Davidson

October 22, 2009

I pray the Lord brings great comfort to your family and it is good to know He is with the Lord right now- that brings great peace. Paul was a great man who loved the Lord and served the Lord faithfully...We continue to pray for you Cheryl and your family that God would give you strength and peace through this and that He be glorified~ Mandee Davidson

Anna Tiger

October 22, 2009

Cheryal, Ben, & Sara, I am truley sorry for your loss. May you find comfort and strength in our Lord and Saver Jesus Christ during this tragic time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Anna Tiger

Carol Wojciechowski

October 22, 2009

Dear Sheryl, Sarah and Ben and family,
We greive over your loss with Paul passing, but rejoice knowing he's with the father getting ready to prepare a place for all of us. No doubt the Lord will carry you in the palm of his hand, and know your loved by all of us. Your in our prayers daily. Our memories of Paul and you are laughter, encouragement and being friends. When we think of him its with a smile...that's imprinted in our hearts.
In Him, We love....
The Wojo's Randy, Carol, Haleigh and Asher

Jan Clark

October 21, 2009

Sheryl, Sarah, and Ben, There are no words to express the sorrow that is felt over the loss of Paul from this world. Sheryl, I remember how you called him "Rock." Now your Rock is in the arms of the Rock of all ages, our Lord Jesus. Paul's compassion, humor, and ministry will be missed. You are in my prayers. Jan Clark

Ron, Sandy, Carlee Darrow

October 21, 2009

Lord Jesus,

We lift up Sheryl, Sarah, Ben and their entire family to you asking that you comfort them and bring them peace that passes all understanding. We know that You Lord are in control of all things, even this. You are not shaken by this. We pray that you give them hope for the future and a faith that endures. Comfort them with the many sweet memories they have of Paul. Bring them laughter as they remember his sense of humor. Wrap Your loving arms around them and hold them close.

In Jesus Precious Name, Amen

Pat Crumpler

October 21, 2009

Sheryl, my prayers are with you and your family. I remember you both at Calvary Bible Church and was sad when you left. I know God will be with you at this sad time . Peace be with you, Pat Crumpler

Stephanie Rauert

October 21, 2009

Sheryl, our thoughts and prayers are with you Sarah and Ben. May you find comfort and strength through Christ our Lord. Paul will forever live in every heart he touched. Praise God we will see him again.
We love you, +

Stephanie and Mike Rauert

October 21, 2009

Sheryl & Family,
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy. We know you are grieving deeply. While we cannot lessen your pain, please know that we share it. You have been constantly in our prayers. May God surround, support and comfort you. May you find strength, courage and hope through the peace of Christ, which passes all understanding.

In His Love,
Professor Eddie & Sis Sandra Hare, Jr.

October 21, 2009

Dear Sheryl,
My heart goes out to you. I was at Twin Oaks Ranch with Fellowship
Baptist. I was so blessed by you last weekend; then to hear the
tragic ending. God has His hand in all this. I also lost my husband
at 52 and God is an amazing God he will help you thru minute by
minute, hour by hour and day by day. My prayers are with you.
Linda McClanahn

October 21, 2009

Sheryl, Sarah and Ben. Our prayers are with you as you face this deep pain and loss. We pray the Lord Jesus holds you tight and comforts you.
Mark & Katie Turner-Bakersfield

October 21, 2009

Sheryl & Family,
Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you. We so admired the work that Paul did for our Lord. What an inspiration he was to our family and coutless others. He will be truly missed.
Andy, Louise, Stephen and Alexandria Carrete

Debby Crow

October 21, 2009

Sheryl and family

I am so saddened by the loss of Paul, I cannot imagine your world without him. Heaven is rejoicing at his arrival, but the sting of his departure here hurts nevertheless. I know you are strong, and God will keep you stronger. I will continue to pray for you as you deal with this horrible tragedy.

Lyn Kalar

October 21, 2009

Sheryl & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Paul's passing but so very thankful to know where he is at this time & who was there to great him upon his entry. Cherish your memories & allow them to give you comfort. He was a wonderful man & one I'm thankful to have known at Calvary Bible. My prayers are with you.

David Darlington

October 21, 2009

We are sorry to hear of Paul's passing. His son & our son are both students and fraternity bothers at UC Davis. Paul was a frequent visitor to the fraternity house and would often cook for all the young men in the house. Paul's presence on this earth will be missed.

October 21, 2009

Dear Ben, Mrs. Giesbrecht, and family,
We are so so sorry to hear about your dad/husband. All through high school our sons spent a lot of time at your house and spoke so highly of Mr. Giesbrecht. Knowing the quality of person Ben turned out to be is a tribute to the kind of man his father was. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Rod and Luann

October 21, 2009

Sheryl and family. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I pray the peace and comfort that only our Lord and Savior can bring to you at this time. Yes, you will see him again, and it will be a wonderful reunion. Love, Sybil Villaryo

Patti Johnson

October 21, 2009

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with Paul at Calvary Bible Church. He was a kind and gentle person who loved his family. He will be greatly missed by many. God bless you Sheryl, Ben, Sarah and family through this difficult time.

October 21, 2009

Our prayers are with you in this time of grieving. We fondly remember Paul and our times at Calvary Bible. May God's blessings and comfort be with you all.
Stephen and Conchita Walker, Bakersfield, CA

October 21, 2009

Romanians Beni and Ancuta wants to be thankful to God for alowing to met Pastor Paul and learn from HIm while we were in America this year. Love and prayers for you dear Sherly.

Doris Dunham

October 21, 2009

Please accept my condolences at this time of your loss. Although I did not know Pastor Paul personally, I know Ben and knew of the work Paul and Sheryl have done in this community. It is always a difficult time when one of our Lord's strong workers is taken. May our gracious and holy God hold you all gently and may you know the peace of his perfect care.

October 21, 2009

I will always remember when Paul officiated at the marriage of his sister, Marlene and her husband Clarence. He knew the couple was nervous so he had those of us in the wedding party quote from the movie, " The Princess Bride" wedding scene: "Mawage, Mawage is what brings us here today." Everyone laughed and the tension was broken. Thanks Paul for being a great big brother to Marlene. Cherie Bell(Corona, CA)

Lisa Turner

October 21, 2009

Sheryl...
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know how you feel I truly do. Please let me know if you need anything at all..
Love you

Tere Dunn

October 21, 2009

Trusting in God's Promises. Giesbrecht Family, you are in our prayers, our hearts and our thoughts. Sheryl, you will see the most awesome husband ever again in heaven. May God keep his loving arms around you in this time a great loss.

Rick Hart

October 21, 2009

Sheryl,
My prayers are with you and your family. I'm a fellow Biolan who considered Paul (Rock) a friend and an inspiration at a crutial time in my spiritual journey. He will be greatly missed but his memory lives on.

Inge Hughes

October 21, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

October 21, 2009

We extend our condolences to the family and extended family
Jim and Joan Harder, Oceano, Ca.

October 21, 2009

He was so special. I have all of you in my prayers.
Patti Strickland (Bakersfield, CA)

ken beggs

October 21, 2009

To Pauls' family. Paul just started coming to my house for a Bible study on Tuesday. The group of men in the study were blessed by his input and insight. We will miss him until we see him again. Our thoughts and prayers are with you the family. Love Ken Beggs and group

Frank & Mary Kay Fuhlrodt

October 21, 2009

We are shocked to hear of Pastor Paul's accident. We talked with him just a week ago. He was so proud as he talked about Ben and Sarah.
We will never forget our Newbie group with Pastor Paul and Sheryl.
We will cherish our memories of all the good times we had that forever changed our lived as we prepared for baptism by Pastor Paul. Our love and prayers go out to Sheryl, Sarah, Ben, Sharon, and Miriam.

Danielle

October 21, 2009

Sheryl and Family,
You are ALL in my prayers!!! I am still shocked about pauls Passing.

Nancy Walker

October 21, 2009

Our family will hold our memories of Paul close to our heart. You and your family have our love and prayers.

Charlene (Peacock) Robison

October 21, 2009

WOW! What a blow when I found out about Paul yesterday. I still dont know what all happened.
Sheryl, Sarah, Ben, Miriam, Sheryle and Marlene, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Some of you I have never met and the rest its been a very long time since I have seen you. Paul will be dearly missed by so many people that knew and loved him over the yrs... He reminded me alot of my dad with all the jokes he loved to play on people and just a down to earth person... I am glad I met him way back when we were in high school and at the old church. I will never forget him. Rest in peace Paul and say hello to my dad and your dad for me...

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