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Jay Substad Obituary
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Louise Anderson
January 14, 2025
Jeremiah 29:11 while we don´t know God´s plans, we know Jay is enjoying the blessings of God´s promises. Jay remains in our memories and his faithful life was a legacy to all who knew him. Blessed be his memory.
Ann Couwenhoven
January 14, 2021
What a tremendous hit this world took when Jay entered the presence of His Savior. He was a rare man who was all-in in the things that mattered. He loved his family and knew how to prioritize them. He loved his friends and certainly enjoyed celebrations. And he loved the hurting, and sacrificed much for their well being. He oozed Jesus Christ. Praying for you on this hard day, Susie and kids. Love you, Ann and Russ.
February 2, 2014
Susie, we were so sad to hear about Jay's death, and the shock and grief that your family has had to bear. I don't know of anyone who didn't like Jay. He always seemed very positive and full of energy. Even though we didn't get to know you and Jay as well as we would have liked, we have fond memories of Bethel days, including our 20th when Jay shared about the Honduras work that God had called him to. We are blessed to have known you and Jay, and pray that God will grant your family peace and joy amidst the deep sorrow that you are carrying.
~ Dan and Diana Magnuson
Randy Wuori
February 1, 2014
I was playing broomball today with fellow Freshman dorm mates Steve Thompson and Dan Magnuson when I heard the news both of Jay being named Bethel alumnus of the year for 2013 as well as his recent journey to his heavenly home. We had many smiles as we talked about Jay. He truly was the "glue" which made our freshman dorm floor in Edgren so incredible! I also will never forget the support that Jay was for me my freshman year when my dad went to be with Jesus. Susie, my deepest heartfelt prayers go out for you and your family. My family would love to be of support to your family such as a meal if you ever find that helpful.
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Randy Wuori
February 1, 2014
I was playing pick-up broomball today with fellow Edgren dorm mates Steve Thompson and Dan Magnuson when I heard about Jay both being named Alumnus of the year for 2013 then about his recent journey to his heavenly home. We had so many smiles when remembering Jay today. He was the "glue" for such a fantastic Freshman dorm floor! I also distinctly remember the encouragement that Jay was for me when my dad went to be with Jesus my Freshman year. Susie, I want you to know that I am praying for you and your family and my family would love to help with anything such as meals if that is helpful! [email protected]
Shelley (Olson) Johnson
January 29, 2014
Substads, I haven't seen you since days at Bethel, but seeing your pictures, you've barely aged a day. When Jay passed, we were IN Honduras on a mission trip ourselves, got word of Jay's homegoing, and sent up many prayers for all of you. Que nuestro Señor Jesús consolarte y darte paz.
Luke Goodrich
January 28, 2014
Dear Substad Family, I'm so sorry to hear of Jay's passing. I met him in Honduras and visited during Larry's wedding, and Jay always radiated the love of Christ. My heart aches for your loss. Come Lord Jesus!
Jolene
January 27, 2014
I do not know the Substad family personally, but Jay came to speak at Chapel late in 2013 and I was touched by his drive to follow the will of God no matter where it took him. May the family have peace and comfort that only comes from the Lord in this time.
Jon Walman
January 26, 2014
Substad family, we've never met, but my family and Jay's were close during Jay's childhood living in Apple Valley. My wife, Carlee (Christopherson), knew Jay when they attended Westview elementary school. We'd like to pass along our condolences. It sounds like Jay was a living saint, serving God's will and those in need. His amazing life story is very inspiring. May Christ give you comfort and peace during this difficult time. God bless, Jon Walman (3rd son of Mike and Mary Walman)
Martin Maloney
January 23, 2014
Jay was my leader in small group at Faith during high school: I certainly am thankful for the life he chose to lead and how he affected mine in such a powerful way. Look forward to sitting down in small group once again with you in the future, Jay.
George "Scooter" Maurer
January 22, 2014
To Jay's family:
I was at Jay's celebration today and I have to say I'm proud of him and inspired by him. The last I ever saw of Jay was when I was 12 and we had to leave 450 Reflection Road to move to Pennsylvania. Jay was my best friend on the block growing up in Apple Valley. After viewing his legacy today at that packed church, I went away wishing I had still known him. But even a kid a few doors down can make an impact, and that he did. For some reason, I remember catching fire flys with him and we'd put them in a jar and use them to light our tent in Jay's back yard. He's still providing that Light now. On behalf of my mom and dad (George and Janice) and my siblings, Patrick, Michele, and Laura,we extend our condolences and prayers to you.
Lanny and Millie Stapp
January 22, 2014
Susie and kids, we are shocked and heartbroken with the loss of Jay. Why does the Lord take the good guys early? I was with Jay and guys on the first Honduras water project. Jay had a passion for missions and many lives are blessed for his walk with God.
We love you.
Lesley Lee & family (Murray)
January 21, 2014
We are so terribly sorry for your loss. We are praying for God's comfort during this difficult time. Sending much love to your family.
Suzie Bonnell
January 21, 2014
My heart goes out to all your family and friends. You made a big difference in our lives and that of our children. Rest in Peace. You did a great job on earth and God is embracing you saying, " job well done". The Bonnell Family
Mark Kraakevik
January 21, 2014
Praying that you and your family would feel comfort and peace in this storm. Know that His strong arms of love are holding you now.
Dave and Louise Anderson
January 21, 2014
Our prayers are with you all. We know that God's promises are what will be your comfort and support in these sad days. Jay was a faithful servant of His Lord and a witness to all who knew him. He has left a strong legacy of that faith for family and friends. Blessed be his memory.
Bonnie & Jeff Mitchell
January 21, 2014
Susie, Allison,Grant, Bethany,Trent and Burk,
What a privilage and blessing it was to know Jay. Our families are just starting a journey together but we have already learned from Jay to be a blessing to someone each day. Jesus showed up through all Jay did and dreamed. May the abiding presence of God find us in the wilderness of grief. As we travel Jay will be there smiling, encouraging us to live our faith outloud. Peace be with you,
Ann & Russ Couwenhoven
January 21, 2014
Susie and kids, i wish the grieving your friends are experiencing would subtract from the grieving you are going through. You are always in our thoughts and our hearts are broken with yours. What an incredible man Jay was. We are so so sad for you. We are forever grateful for a God who abides with us, and we pray that you will feel Him holding on to you all. We love you
Brian Addis
January 21, 2014
To Jay's family and friends: There is an old saying. A joy shared is twice the joy. A grief shared is half a grief. Look to each other at this time and share. Wings, Inc. had 438 flight instructors over a 30 year period. Without question Jay stands out in my memory as superior. He was one of those guys that the other instructors would look to for help and advice. When he left Wings, I remember thinking, this guy is special and he's going to be special all of his life.
Christofer Adding
January 21, 2014
Dear family Substad,
I don't really know you but I got to know Jay during my year as an exchange student in AVHS 1983-84. Jay was such a great and caring person and inspired me back then. It is so sad to hear he is gone and I cannot imagine the sadness you must experience.
With deepest sympathy,
Dr. Christofer Adding with family.
Michelle Kirby
January 21, 2014
Substads,
I am so sorry to hear of Jay's passing. I have so many memories of Jay when we were growing up on Reflection Road. The late nights of kick the can and sitting around just talking with all of the neighbor kids. I will always hold those memories and times in my heart fondly. God bless you all.
Entertaining friends with stories at dinner.
Deb Seelig
January 21, 2014
Benjamin Moberg
January 21, 2014
Thank you, Jay, for your kindness, for your friendship, for the impression you left on all of us about what it means to live a life of love. You are a man after God's heart, Jay. And I will miss you and love you always.
Amy Lary White
January 20, 2014
Bethany,
I want you to know your family has been in my heart and prayers since I heard about your dad. I can't imagine what you are going through. May you find comfort in your family and friends in this terrible time. Let me know if there is anything I can do. Focus on your family. All else can wait.
May God surround you in his mighty arms
Wendell Carlson
January 20, 2014
Dear Substad family; Your husband and dad was an inspiration to me as he reflected the joy of his Savior. His influence will live on. May God sustain you during your grieving.
He was always someone very funny and happy!!!
Marisabel Espinal
January 20, 2014
All my love and prayers are with you Substad Family!!! I will never forget my dear brother (Hermanito)Jay!!!
Paula (Grimm) Bonelli
January 20, 2014
May the love of friends and family carry you through this very difficult time. Although I haven't known Jay recently, our families were close when we were kids.
My extended family and I want you to know our prayers are with all of you.
Jim & Debbie Shoberg
January 20, 2014
Susie and Kids,
Our deepest sympathy at the passing of Jay. Know that our prayers are with you during these difficult days, and we'll continue to pray for you in the weeks and months to come.
It's obvious that Jay touched many lives, and his investment in people for the Kingdom of God is for eternity.
May you know God's presence in a very special way in these days.
- Jim and Debbie Shoberg
Las Mangas Group Photo - 2006
Chris & Sharon Struna
January 20, 2014
We love and miss you Substads. We will never forget Jay and the time God gave us with him. We are SO sorry for your immeasurable loss.
Chris & Sharon Struna
January 20, 2014
Thoughts and prayers are with the whole Substad family. He was much loved and loved much. We are all so blessed to have such a good man in this life we live.
Desiree (Stensrud), Terry Littlefield
Rick Elliott
January 20, 2014
Susie and family - I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Jay. He meant so much to so many, me included. I was blessed to be with him on two different occasions in Honduras. He changed many many lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless you all.
Cheryl Conrad
January 20, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of the sudden loss. Your family will be in our prayers. Even though I have only know Allison for awhile, I know she thought her dad was very special and heard about his passion for others.
Cheryl Conrad (First Grade teacher with his daughter, Allison)
Brian Johnson
January 20, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Susie, and your children and all who were touched by Jay. He was a gift from God. Glad to know he is with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in heaven. Romans 8:28. Prayers continue. Love, The Johnson Family
January 20, 2014
To the Substad Family and Our Little Paige,
We are shocked and so saddened by your loss of Jay.
He has been an inspirations and guardian angel to so many. Now, it seems, the Lord has elevated him into a higher position in Heaven.
May the good Lord hold Jay and each of you in the palm of His Hands.
We will see you at the services honoring Jay.
Our love, prayers, and thoughts,
Yvonne Lehnen Kenworthy and Family
Gary Pederson
January 20, 2014
Bob and Gong.I am so sorry to read of the passing of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. I know there are no words to give you comfort in your loss but know that God loves you and will always be by your side. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless and RIP.Gary and Shirley Pederson,Little River SC
Murray Johnson
January 20, 2014
My heartfelt condolences to the entire Substad family on the passing of Jay. Wishing you all peace of heart and peace of mind. Jay's spirit and memory will live on through the countless lives that he touched. I pray that the pictures, stories and memories that he has left you with help you through these difficult times. Peace be with you.
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