“The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!” Psalm 16:3 NLT
It is with great shock and sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Bob Gempel on Tuesday, August 13th. On Monday Bob was stricken with a brain aneurysm while having breakfast with his beloved wife Pat. After she called 911, they prayed for God to lead them. Shortly after Bob lost consciousness. After an emergency surgery he passed away a day later graciously spared of suffering. Pat was at his side the whole time, and the family quickly gathered in Radnor, Pennsylvania to grieve this unexpected loss.
Bob means so much to so many and since his passing tremendous expressions of love, support, and comfort have come in from around the world. With Bob’s numerous roles in the Philadelphia church as leader, elder, counselor and friend, his service as a founding elder of the Boston Church of Christ and ICOC church leader, as well as his global influence as founder and former CEO of HOPE worldwide , Bob’s departure will surely be felt all around the world.
The family wishes to thank so many who expressed their condolences and shown great kindness during this time of sadness and loss. Although we will miss having Bob in our lives, we rest assured that he has gone to be with God.
“But those who die in the Lord will live; their bodies will rise again! Those who sleep in the earth will rise up and sing for joy!” Isaiah 26:19 NLT
Two memorial services have been planned to celebrate Bob’slife:
Philadelphia
Sunday, September 1st, 2:00-4:00 pm
Temple Performing Arts Center
1837 North Broad Street, Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19122
(Parking Directly across Broad St., Lot #1 – Broad to Norris to 15th St. to enter)
Boston
Saturday, September 7th, 11 am
Boston Church of Christ
75 Pleasant St., Arlington Massachusetts
In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be sent to HOPE worldwide and Hope For Kids.
