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Donald Ray Pinon
1929 - 2015
Donald Ray Pinon
1929 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1929
DIED
2015
Donald Pinon Obituary
Donald Ray Pinon, a sweet, handsome, loving husband, who we fondly call dad, dedicated to God and his family was taken home to be with his Heavenly Father on October 26, 2015. It was determined that he was taken by an aortic aneurysm.
Dad was born on October 14, 1929 in Gridley, Kansas to Everett and Lillian Pinon. He had one older brother, Lloyd, an older sister, Alma, a younger sister, Lila (who's here with us today) and a younger brother, Harley. Dad grew up in Kansas and helped his dad with the family business. He gave his life to God and was baptized on December 14, 1947. When Dad was 18 years old, he left the family business, got on a train and went to Ottumwa, Iowa to attend Midwestern School of Evangelism. He received his Bachelor of Sacred Literature degree in 1953 and was ordained to the ministry in Hutchinson, Kansas that same year.
Dad's passion was to win souls to Christ and to build the kingdom of God. He answered God's call by preaching in several churches while he was in Bible college. Monroe City, Indiana was one of the first towns in which he preached as a student. This is where he met his bride, Geraldine Mildred Smith, who he married on January 29, 1950. While still in school, God blessed them with two adorable little girls, Arla Faye & RaDonna Kay. Arla grew up and married Gary Nichols and they live in Loveland, Colorado. RaDonna grew up and married Jerry Smith and they live in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
He began his first full time ministry in Brazil, Indiana. In 1957 they moved to Denver, Colorado where two more blessings came along, Donetta Sue and Jerald Ray. Donetta grew up and married Stan Rodda who went to be with God in 1998 and now she is happily married to Randy Kirkman, who had lost his wife, Candice, that same year. Randy and Donetta now reside in Kansas City, Missouri. Jerald Ray (hasn't grown up yet) married his sweetheart, Nikke and they live in Castle Rock, Colorado. In 1961 they moved to Gering, Nebraska and the family was blessed with Janice Lu being born there. When she grew up, she married Craig Embree and they reside in Galax, Virginia.
In 1989 Mom and Dad moved to Colorado where they labored until God called him home.
Our mother was his loving and faithful companion, helper and confidant to him for 65 years,
8 months, and 28 days, supporting his every endeavor in the good times as well as the difficult times of their lives. None of us heard a harsh word spoken between them. Their love was unfailing. As time has passed, dad's 5 children began their families, and so the number of descendants began growing. There are 17 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren in this family now, most of which are present here today. What a beautiful legacy he started. His grandson Wesley Ray Pinon, and his great granddaughter, Emmi Faye Nichols, were waiting for him in Heaven, along with both of his brothers and sister.
During his years of ministry, Dad spent hours conducting home Bible studies and traveling the country preaching in revival meetings, camps, soul saving seminars and rallies. He preached thousands of sermons in nearly every state in America, and also preached in Puerto Rico and Nazareth. In 1968 he opened the Church of Christ Bible Training School and began training young men and women to win souls and build churches. The school was later called Scottsbluff School of Evangelism and then Rocky Mountain School of Evangelism. In 1969 Dad was honored when Archie Word came to serve with him in his ministry. They worked happily together for over 18 years. Along with several of his students, Dad was inspirational in planting several churches, which he fondly called lighthouses. Dad has been an inspiration to thousands of people all over the country through his teachings and his wonderful example of personal dedication to God. Last year Vic Knowles presented him with the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizing his outstanding service to God.
Dad will be greatly missed by all of us. His life and legacy will continue on through the many lives that he has touched by his undying love for God and His church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Darryl F. Scott
June 1, 2024
Excellent Teacher: Homiletics, 1-2 Timothy & Titus, Life of Christ, Acts and more. . Through Bro. Pinon, I gained preaching intern experience in Ft. Morgan & Wray, CO, Torrington, WY, North Platte, Kimball, & Gering, NE. His preaching was instructive, animated, fiery and brought conviction.
December 10, 2015
I miss you every day! You were the best daddy ever and I'm so proud to be your only son. I cant wait to be with you forever, love you so much, J.R.
J.R. Pinon
December 10, 2015
Kari Taylor
December 1, 2015
The name Don Pinon will always ring in my heart of a man that was faithful to God, to his wife, his family and his church. He is the reason I am a Christian today mostly because he didn't give up on me and pushed me just enough to make the most important decision of my life 25 years ago.
I'm so thankful to have been under his leadership. I will miss the way he always had to shake your hand goodbye and if he missed you he would call you and make sure you knew he was glad to see you. I loved the way he called me Kari Vonderlage Taylor, even after years of being married. There are so many memories. It's still hard to believe he's gone.
I'm so thankful for the beautiful service the family put on. It was absolutely beautiful! Gerry you and your family are in our prayers. We love you and are here for you.
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Velma Jennings
November 26, 2015
I like how Don Pinon preached from the Bible. He always wore suspenders and I liked that,and how he always smiled. I like how he picked Godly songs to lead for services and always talked about God. I wish I could see him one more time. I am praying for you Gerry.
Joseph Jennings
November 26, 2015
Don was always talking adout God. He was a man of prayer. He was a good preacher. I will miss you very much Don.
Quentin Nemitz
November 25, 2015
I could tell that Don believed and lived what he preached;I also enjoyed learning under his teaching, he had so much bible knowledge.Don had a pleasent spirit about him,and enjoyed working with people;he will not be easily forgotten.
Autumn Nemitz
November 25, 2015
Your faithfulness to the Lord will live on as an example in my life. I will miss your sense of humor and your love of life. It just isn't the same without you around.
Pam Branson
November 25, 2015
I cannot add anything that hasn't been said. Don and Gerry were examples to aspire to in their marriage, love for each other and their walk with Christ. Brother Don brought our family, including my mom, to Christ. With the years of patience and home Bible studies. Innumerable dinners and fellowship, it was easy to learn the Bible and love Christ. Thank you brother and your wife for never giving up on the lost
June Biemiller
November 25, 2015
I am thankful to have known Brother Don since I was sixteen years old, the year that I surrendered my life to Christ. My first memory of him is when Don was invited to preach at a "Fabulous 5th", at the Church at Loveland. My family was doing home Bible studies with Gary, and I had just talked to him about getting baptized, but,I did not yet have quite the knowledge that I needed. I was very convicted by Don's message,and stood there crying through the invitation song. Shortly after that I was converted. I was blessed to attend the School of Evangelism, and one of my favorite memories is when Don would give us slips of paper, at the beginning of they year, to record our personal devotion times, calls made, Bible studies conducted/helper, etc . . . On Friday, Don would ask, "did you all bring your little pretties" meaning, did we bring our slip of paper with us? I appreciated that he was trying to instill good, lifelong habits in us. Another favorite memory is when Don came to Longmont to preach,about 10 years ago, he was talking about us being strangers and aliens in this world. Our youngest daughter leaned over to me and whispered, "I didn't know Don Pinon believed in aliens!" Our family will always appreciate the strong convictions, powerful sermons, and joyful man that Don was. I cherish the time spent in Bible college, that gave me such a strong foundation, and we will forever be thankful for the Family Camp that he established. Brother Don, we look forward to seeing you again!
Iliah Nemitz
November 25, 2015
How very thankful I am to have been given the greatest gift of salvation from God on high. Don played a big part in bringing the gospel to me and my family. The care and concern shown by Don and his wife from the beginning of my walk with God is so touching. To have an example of a growing Christian, a growing healthy marriage and a worker for the Lord is priceless and will live on with me through my years. A challenge to be more active in spreading the good news is what he leaves to me and I am forever thankful.
Ron & Gerri Andrews
November 21, 2015
Dear Gerry & Family,
We we're so saddened to hear about Brother
Don's passing. The Service was so touching
and we are so grateful to have known him and the family for over 20 yrs. If it wasn't for Brother Don we don't know where we would have been without Jesus our Lord and Savior. Your family has truly been a Blessing to Ron & I, you will all have a
special place in our hearts. There are so
many memories we will always treasure. May
God comfort and give you strength and peace in each new day.
With Love,
Margaret Hunt
November 10, 2015
Dear Gerry,
What a wonderful gift God has given us to be able to remember...Good times, wonderful people, rallies, meals with friends, holidays, vacations, etc.
Over the years I am so glad that we were able to be together, your family and ours, both at your place and you here in Iowa; having our husbands working together to build the kingdom of God.
Thank you and Don for helping care for my parents in their later years. Your family could not have been kinder or more caring! Our family needed you and will always be grateful.
Memory is wonderful and so is the future. Ask God to lead you, then grab it, and go. With God by your side and the comforter in your heart, life and ministry continue. In time, ministering to and with others will look and feel different, yet be effective and blessed by God.
Call me any time you want to talk.
Love you much,
Margaret Hunt
Bonny Wohlcke
November 9, 2015
Uncle Don's funeral was the most uplifting funeral service I've ever attended. There was laughter, tears, and so many old memories brought up, that I'd forgotten about. I may not be blood relation but definitely the "Wanna Be"! And very proud to be a part of this family, and thank you for including me, as you guys have always done. I have always loved and admired the Love Story Don & Gerri lived on a daily basis. What a wonderful gift from God, to share that relationship for so many years.
Uncle Don will be missed by so many people. He has such an impact on everyone he met. I know He was looking down from Heaven, and was so proud of everyone of his family and the send off they gave to him.
I thought about the homecoming celebration that he had when he arrived in Heaven with his Parents, sister, grandson and his brother Lloyd. That makes me smile.
God bless you all! He will be missed and was loved to very much.
Love you all! Bonny Wohlcke
Jim and Karen Audett
November 7, 2015
We will always cherish the memories of our Bible studies with popcorn and Hershey kisses. You always brought the Coke and we drank our Pepsi. We never could agree on that.
To the entire family, we love you and know that Don's passing is a great loss for you. We hope you will always remember the good times. We pray for you daily.
Nathan & Alissa Rhea
November 7, 2015
Nathan & I were both blessed to be able to attend Rocky Mountain School of Evangelism under Don's teaching. He was an amazing man with much wisdom, godliness, courage, and energy.
Keenan, our oldest son--who is now 15, considered Don his favorite preacher when he was about 5 or 6 years old. He loved to hear Don preach at camps and rallies. We always sat near the front and he would lean forward with his elbows on his knees in intent concentration, listening to every word. We are so thankful for the powerful and godly messages Don always had.
May God comfort and bless you, Gerry (and family) in the difficult days ahead. You have been a blessing in our lives. May we be such to others.
November 6, 2015
JR and family: You continue to have our support and deepest condolences. May God grant you the strength needed for the days and years ahead.
Regards,
Alejandro, David, and Lydia
Advantage Aurora Chase Chapel
Charles and Marj Conger
November 5, 2015
Don Pinon has been a dedicated Soul-Winner since we first met him at MSE(Charles in 1947, and Marj in 1950). Don and Gerry were living in a trailer home and invited Marj over for supper. What a treat...fried chicken and all the trimmings! Gerry was a "good cook" and they made me feel very welcome.
Charles remembers when Don first came to MSE, he drove a '34 Ford coupe and his dad had just put a new motor in it. Marian McKee was holding a revival at the Mystic Christian Church and Barbara (Gee) Prilliman and Sandra (Gee James were singing every night. Jack Regouby, Orin Dyer. and Charles were invited by Don to ride along to the meeting. After the service we all went to the parsonage, where the McKees and the Gee twins were staying, for food and fellowship. We students thoroughly enjoyed that evening.
Don G. Hunt II
November 5, 2015
The Hunt family and the Pinon family go back many years together. We stayed numerous times in their home both in NE and CO. And they in our home in IA. Lots of bowls of popcorn and bottles of coke were shared around many stories, games, and laughs.
Don was an amazing, enthusiastic, energetic, motivating, persuasive man of God both behind the pulpit and on the street as he taught people about Jesus.
I am thankful Don invited my Grandpa Archie Word to work shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart, and sermon and class together, when he was 65. Don gave him the opportunity to finish strong as they worked together for 18+ years. The two of them touched many lives for Jesus as they trained men and women for service to the King of Kings. Memories are wonderful as we choose what to remember about this dedicated servant of God.
Gerry and family, feel free to call or e-mail any time you want a listening ear and to talk. Count your blessings, relive your positive memories, and keep your faith and focus on your hope for eternity. The following verses summaries the life and passion of Don in my mind.
1 Corinthians 15:55-58 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! HE gives us the VICTORY through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, STAND firm. Let NOTHING move you. ALWAYS give yourselves FULLY to the work of the Lord, because you KNOW that your LABOR in the Lord is NOT in vain."
Todd & Dany Putnam
November 4, 2015
To J.R and Family, We wish you and your family our sincerest condolences. Words can not be written to say how we could know what your loss means to you. We hope that you and your family can find peace at a time like this. Our best to you all.
Ken and Gail Spoonts
November 3, 2015
Gerry, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We feel so blessed to have met you and Don. We truly believe that the Lord brought us together and so loved our bible studies together. You and Don are the true inspiration of the church, in that you continued tirelessly to spend time with others ministering the word of God. You truly inspire others and we will sincerely miss our Brother Don. His presence may be gone but he will live forever in our hearts.
Sharon Schear
November 2, 2015
Gerry,
You will continue to be in my prayers. I thought the service was the best funeral ever (truly) and was such a fitting tribute to Don and all the lives you and he have touched very much including mine and my family's. Hearing his voice gave me goosebumps it was like time traveling. You and Don were such good role models of not only a long marriage (which is rare enough) but a truly happy one. I appreciate all the visits you made to my parents when they were hospitalized or ill at home both you and Don were so dedicated in that and it made a difference in people's lives at a time when they needed it most.
My condolences - and Rod's - to the entire family.
Tim Biemiler
November 2, 2015
"Don was such a blessing to me. I still remember staying at the Pinons, my first week of Bible College, and when I came upstairs in the morning I would see Don on his knees in prayer. I also enjoyed going to Bible studies with him and watch how he would teach people. I learned so much from him on soul winning. Also, when living in Albany and in Longmont, often my phone would ring, and it would be Brother Don, calling to see how the church and I were doing. I will miss him greatly. My family has truly been blessed as a result of his labor. Tim Biemiller (Longmont, CO)
Cheryl Westerfield
November 2, 2015
Dear Gerry, May the Comforter bless you with His comfort.
Ardith and Bob Hanlin
November 2, 2015
Blessings to you, Gerry, and all your family. My heart is heavy at the loss of Don. He was a very special person to me and my family. Be comforted knowing that God is with you, we are prayig for you at this time of loss sadness.
Debbie Lorenzen
November 1, 2015
Gerry and Family, Praying God gives you peace and strength as you all deal with your loss. So many fond memories of Don, and so thankful for his beautiful legacy that has changed so many lives who then continue to change lives as Gods word is continually spread. So sad, yet rejoice with the angels as one more beautiful soul has gone home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In Christ's Love, Debbie and Dean Lorenzen
Sojourner Bradmon
November 1, 2015
Don was such a great encouragement to me to seek and save the lost. My father also was very encouraging in talking to the lost about God and Don sort of picked up where my dad left off when I moved to Denver for Bible college. It was so great to see how he could open the Scriptures and teach so well on a difficult topic such as the holy spirit even as he was getting older. Actually, Don was old when I met him but never seemed old until the last couple years. He was always so full of life and love for the Lord. Thank you for your wonderful example! You will be greatly missed!
Saundra Truax
October 31, 2015
Dear Gerry and Family, I'm sorry to hear of Don's passing. I know how close you both were and it shows in recent photos. May Our Loving Heavenly Father comfort you through the days ahead.
John and Peggy Martin
October 31, 2015
Gerry and family, We are so sorry for your loss of Don. We pray that our Heavenly Father will comfort you and give you peace. Know that you have a lot of Brothers and Sisters praying for you all! Cherish all your precious memories. "Well done good and faithful servant enter into the joy of your master."
October 30, 2015
We are sending our heart felt love and prayers to you and your family Gerry, May you all be comforted as only our Father can do so. We are so glad you had many wonderful years together. Dick and Nancy Ellis, Ottumwa, Ia.
pete digiovanni
October 30, 2015
Donetta-My condolences regarding the passing of your father. I'm sure he led a wonderful life, and very much enjoyed the love of you and your siblings and grandkids and great grandkids.
October 30, 2015
Dear Gerry and Pinon family,
We are sorry not to be able to come to the services. We have been blessed to be a part of your life for the past 30+ years. Our hearts ache for you all. As one of Don's "Timothy's" we will do our best to continue on in the training that he gave us. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Our love to you all.
The Bradmon Family of Pennsylvania
Cheri & Kevin Turpin
October 30, 2015
May God bless all your family with comfort and strength at this time. Cheri & Kevin Turpin
Michele Wells Swartz
October 29, 2015
Gerry and family, You are in our thought and prayers. I know Don will be singing in the heavenly choir with my dad and others.
October 29, 2015
I knew him well I did not know he died I well pray for the family
And thank for leting me know
Connie Richardson
October 29, 2015
What a great man of God he was. I and my family (Westerfields) will miss him terribly. May God bless you Gerry and all your family with comfort, strength and encouragement at this time. God bless you. Connie Westerfield Richardson.
Bill & Sandy McLaughlin
October 29, 2015
As I shared with Brooke, Don's grand daughter, my family and I have many fond memories with brother Don. One of our daughters Erin was baptized into Christ following one of Don's messages while he was holding a Revival meeting in Galax Virginia. He also performed the wedding ceremony for our oldest daughter Courtney and her husband Del. So both Don and sister Gerry had a real impact in our families lives. We celebrate his victory in receiving his crown and continue to pray for you sister Gerry and the rest of your family in your loss of him here on earth. Love to all!
Bill & Sandy
October 29, 2015
Gerry and Family - Don was such a blessing to our lives. We are grateful to have known him and will cherish the memories of him. We pray that you are
being comforted at this time.
In Christ's Love, Terry and Ginger Ault
Michael Martin
October 29, 2015
It was with great pleasure to meet and know this man . If it wasn't for Don Pinon I may not be here today . I was stuck in sin for most of my life . Through his not giving up on me , and treating me like I was worth his and Gerry's hard efforts to save me I stand up today clean and sober of almost 8 years and owe who I am today to this man and his loving family. I will deeply miss this man and his preaching. Thank you Don for reaching out to me and never letting go or giving up on me . I've never know a family so close and loving as Don and Gerry and the rest of the Pinons . I'll miss you Don , Your friend Michael Martin
Marilyn Barber
October 29, 2015
Don joins the great reunion of saints that have gone on this year. May all of you be comforted by our great Comforter. May you be guided in your service of our Lord to follow Don's steps as He followed the steps of Jesus. Know that prayers with love are going up for all of you and especially you, Gerry. The adjustment may be difficult but God is with you every step of the way. Don will not only be missed by his wonderful family but also the family of the Lord. May God bless and guide each one of you.
Marilyn Barber, Centerville, IA
Victor Knowles
October 29, 2015
It was my great privilege to work with Brother Don in youth camps and the school in Gering when we were living in Nebraska. Don and Gerry were a big help to me when I wrote Archie Word's biography, "Voice of Thunder, Heart of Tears." In later years it was always a joy to talk to him over the phone or when we met at church events. Don was the greatest soul winner I ever knew and his passion to build churches (lighthouses) was his greatest joy. May God bless Gerry, his children, spouses, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Victor Knowles, Joplin, MO
Kent and Sue Elmshaeuser
October 29, 2015
Dear Gerry and family - We will miss Don so much. He has been a big part of all of our lives for a long time. Family camp morning devotions will never be the same! Don was extra special to Kent and I because with his time and energies a church was established in Oshkosh and we were able to see several members of my family saved. Words are just not enough at these times but know you are all in our hearts and prayers as you go through this difficult time! God bless!
Ed and Margaret Fagen
October 29, 2015
Dear Gerry, Arla, RaDonna, Donetta, JR and Jan, what wonderful memories I have of the Pinon family. I don't remember not knowing you, so I must have met you when I was very young. I'm thankful for the times we've had together and looking forward to when there are no good-byes. You are all in our prayers. Ed and Margaret Fagen.
Delbert McDaniel
October 29, 2015
Bro Don was a good man and a good friend. He lived a life that is worth celebrating. I wish I could be there with you all. Just know that my heart, and prayers goes out to you all. Loving you from Missouri.
October 29, 2015
Gerry and family: May the Lord grant you an extra measure of His comfort as you face the future with a key person missing. We are so thankful for our shared hope at times of crisis. Charles and Lois Dailey.
Michelle Davies
October 29, 2015
Dear Gerry and family, you are all in our prayers. We know that your faith will provide you comfort in this time of sorrow.
With Christs Love, Tim & Michelle Davies
Lisa Racine
October 29, 2015
Dear Gerry, Arla, RaDonna, Donetta, JR, Jan, and all your family, you are in our thoughts today. We thank God for the long, full life that your beloved husband, father, and grandfather lived. His love for Christ, for preaching the Word, and his love for the lost will live on in the lives that were impacted by him. John and I are thankful to have known and learned much from our brother Don. May you be comforted by God's Spirit. Love to you all.
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