Dear Church Family,

It is with profound sorrow that I write this afternoon to share that Chad and Joye Rickenbaker’s youngest son, David, passed away earlier today following an accident. We do not have details or additional information at this time, but we ask that you take time right now to pray for Chad and Joye, Wil, Hannah, Rachel, and David’s wife, Marlee, and their extended family and friends as they process this tragic news. They have felt the benefits of your heartfelt prayers before, and so we ask that you cover them in prayer throughout this time of grief.

I understand that your first instinct, like mine, is to reach out directly to our beloved Rickenbakers and offer them the comfort of your presence, as well as words of love and support.  You are such a loving church and I am so thankful that this is your response, but for the moment, they are requesting a little bit of time to plan and mourn privately with their family.  There will be an appropriate time for you to comfort them in person, but for now please limit your outreach to messages of support, knowing they will receive them, but will be unable to respond.

In the coming days we will share additional information on how you can best show your love to Chad, Joye, Marlee, Wil, Hannah, and Rachel. We will also share plans for David’s memorial service and any additional relevant details.

In the meantime we hold on to God’s promise in Psalm 34:18 that assures us the Lord is near to the brokenhearted.

Thank you for your love and support,
– Ford