William John Larkin Jr.

I lovec my dear friend and mentor, Dr. Larkin. He was always available to assist me whenever I called to asked him if I was on track with a particular text of Scripture that I was working on for a weekly Sermon. He was one of the most authentic and kind Men that I have had the privilege of knowing. May God continue to bless the fruit of his work, and may the loving memories of Dr. Larkin continue to live on. Wayne C. Cooper

I grieved for the passing away of Dr. Larkin because of the personal contact I had with him since my days in CIU (1994-1998) till now. I am currently teaching in a seminary in Taiwan and at the same time writing my doctoral dissertation (Stellenbosch University in South Africa). One month before Dr. Larkin passed away, I corresponded with him about chapter 4 in my dissertation and received comment and help from him about the direction of my thought in this chapter. In my Trinity...

Dr.  Larkin taught Acts-Revelation and would often translate directly from the Koine Greek when reading Scripture.  He had a passion for contextualizing the Gospel for the peoples of the world.  I also had the privilege of teaching alongside his wife for 2 years at Ben Lippen High School.

I have always remembered Dr. Larkin beginning the initial class in Romans by reading and expounding the last chapter of the book! In it Paul lists numerous individuals dear to his heart. It was quite natural for the professor to identify with the apostle, for he too loved individuals. In Ezra 7:10 I see "Dr. Bill Larkin" written boldly. I cherish my copy of his commentary on Acts.

Dr Larkin was probably the most humble, sweet ,and caring man I have met. He never failed to ask how my boys an I were doing. What an honor to have known him,his wife Edna and both his children!

Dr. Larkin was a man who took his faith and calling seriously and one who was disciplined in all he did.

He studied to know God's Truths more fully, to live them out more richly, to be able to share them more thoroughly. When I first came to CIU in 1994, I remember how he reminded all the new students to “fit their tasks or assignments to a block of time”. He modeled discipline. Further, he was a deep thinker but wise in how to make the truth practical.

He helped me develop...

I was a lonely highchool dropout who found myself in college where I met this wonderful man. He never taught me at all, but he never failed to ask how I was doing. He honored me as an individual, and I have a sneaky suspicion he saw me through the eyes of heaven. In a very real way that man showed me the love we so seldom show one another. May God give me the same ability to love others like he did those of us at school who had nothing like me.

I remember Dr. Larkin's kind smile and greetings, even though I was an undergrad, and had no classes with him. He ran the race well to the end. May the Lord comfort his family with the great hope we have in Christ!

I had Dr. Larkin in 1983-1985 at CIU in NT and Greek and Ethics class. He was a godly example and great teacher and always worked hard to helping people understanding questions; he never seemed to mind spending time to help. He remembered people by name and face. I am sad to read about this today of his passing. Dr. Larkin also had a great passion for missions - character, godliness, love of Greek, sound theology, and missions - a godly example of a Biblical professor in a seminary! With...