Obituary of Richard W. Evanoff

Evanoff, Richard W. West Branch, Michigan In it's best expression the way of the Hippie is the Way of Jesus. Compassion for the hurting, respect for the creation, love for one another and a cheerful, hopeful attitude toward life. From his tie-dyed tee shirts to his noble thoughts, to his unshakable love for his friends and family Rich embodied the very best of what it means to be a hippie. Rich reminded me of Jesus. A gentle strength, a quiet hope and a faithful presence in the Java Junction. Greeting everyone with a smile and always ready for a meaningful conversation. With an eager joy he sat in our living room and took another look at the good news of Jesus. Sifting through misunderstandings and misrepresentations of the Christian way he embraced who he really had always been, a follower of Jesus. I felt such an incredible sense of honor and delight when he began attending Ogemaw Hills Church where I pastored. It felt like having a dignitary in the congregation and he helped me to keep it real. His wise smiles and knowing nods were so uplifting. Somehow between the two of us the One who is the Truth showed up. Rich eventually returned to his Roman Catholic roots and was so glad to be part of the church his mother raised him in. He endeared himself with the staff at the skilled nursing facility where he lived out his days. He brought sunlight, love and hope to many as he cared for those who cared for him. When we spoke a few weeks ago i felt the old familiar warmth and tender love that so characterized Rich. His body had decayed but his heart had not diminished. Our family prayed for him the night before he passed. All of us were genuinely touched. And then, not on Friday but on the Lord's Day, at the very hour of the day Jesus had spoken the words "It is finished" Rich expressed the same. So we pray the ancient words Rich once prayed over his mother: Eternal rest, grant unto Rich O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com