For Gene Appleton

Today a very great man has gone home. Today Aaron and I, along with many others, mourn the loss of an exceptionally great man. Today, the angels are singing. Today Gene may rest at peace for his work here on earth is done.

Gene Appleton is the reason that Aaron, my husband, is a christian. Yes, many people planted seeds in Aaron. But Gene was inspirational. Gene just KNEW Aaron would be a great christian.

I met Gene and Jenny Appleton at one of the lowest points in my marriage. Gene heard me speak and knew the pain I was in, and he was determined to help. He was determined to meet Aaron. His determination lead to talks, breakfasts, car rides, and Aaron meeting other christian men. Aaron found out that we, as Christians, are in no way perfect. We as Christians are flawed. But, through Christ alone, we are made new. Our sins are washed as white as snow. Gene was there for Aaron when he reached his bottom. Gene was there to show Aaron that he is forgiven. All Aaron had to do was ask the Lord to free him. Gene gave Aaron the tools to make a change. Gene was able to introduce Aaron to other men who were not perfect, but wanted to be better. Aaron met many great men who helped him make a decision. On September 9, 2007 Aaron accepted Christ as his savior. Aaron was baptized on September 16, 2007.

Gene said one time that he lived by the motto that as long as he was working for Jesus he was doing his job. Gene said after Aaron was baptized, "That's one more for Jesus." Gene knew that his purpose was to spread the word. Gene had done his job. "Til the whole world knows....God we will go."

Aaron and I would not be able to make it through this difficult time without the Lord. As we are now walking together with the Lord, in every high and every low.We rely very heavily on our faith in the Lord to see us through. We know that the Lord will guide us, strengthen us, and provide us HOPE. Gene, we thank you. Our marriage is stronger today because of you. Thank you Gene Appleton!

We know that Christ is always there."Through the calm and through the storm."

We face many unknowns with Lilah. We know that the Lord holds her in HIS hands. We know, we trust, that Lilah will be healed. Our faith is what keeps us strong. We are able to rely on HIM. We are able to rely on each other. We are able to be strong for our kids.

We will miss you, Gene. We know that someday we will see you when we go home. Until that time we will hold fast to the word that you have helped teach!