Robert Kreider

So many times I´ve recalled how much I failed to appreciate about Robert Kreider because As a Bluffton student I didn´t know his CPS history, his deep involvement in ministering to European families in WWII and his fearless commitment to do so many right things. Perhaps his roles kept him from revealing his experiences about his "activism"...I wish I had appreciated him sooner in my life.

Dr. Kreisler in his World History course at Bluffton shared that he began his day reading the Bible and the newspaper. This memory ideal certainly has been one of my greatest failings but I have never forgotten the message of having strong scriptural presence in living.

WITH MCC'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR, MANY TIMES IN THE CELEBRATION I THOUGHT OF ROBERT AND LOIS KRIEDER AND THEIR IMMENSE CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROGRAMS OF MCC ACROSS THE YEARS. GRACE AND COURAGE, FILLED UP AND POURED OUT BENEFITTING OTHERS - NOTHING BUT GRATITUDE FOR THEIR COURAGE AND GENEROSITY.

How sorry I am to learn of Robert's passing. Having read his My Early Years how I appreciate having crossed through many of the communities he grew up and served in including MCC and Bluffton and his devotion to mental health services earlier in his work life. Gifted, courageous, and thoroughly unafraid of listening to differences. How we will miss his presence!

Robert maintained keen curiosity and a great sense of humor right to the end. His life was full of meaning and contributions to others. A life well lived!

Robert touched many lives. In a special way he touched the life of C. J. Dyck with whom he worked with refugees in Europe following WWII. Peace of Christ be with you.

Kreider Family:

I was stunned today when I opened the Kansan on-line to see that Robert had passed away. There is no one who I respected and admired more than he. In fact, when I was considering leaving an administrative position at the University of Illinois to accept the Presidency at Bethel College, one of the requirements was that I have an opportunity to speak with Robert. Without that conversation, I would not have come to Bethel.

Please know that not only I, but...

I am saddened to hear of Robert's passing. He certainly played a part in my life during my four years at Bluffton. It was good to get in touch with him again a few years ago. Congratulations Lois, on 70 years together! Amazing! My prayers reach out to you and the "children". You are all in my thoughts.