By Brother Lynn Parker

Rick Heimburger, 45 years old, was the kind of man that is sorely needed in the brotherhood. He was not afraid to stand against and confront error whenever it appeared. He loved people, and was dearly loved by those who knew him. He was personable and generous. He was a diligent Bible student. He was a lover of truth. He was a good song leader, Bible class teacher, and preacher.

Rick was the kind of elder that we wish we had in every congregation. He was persistent in his efforts to restore the erring, and keenly interested in evangelism. He helped in youth camp every year and young people loved him.

He was sorely disappointed when certain brethren refused to stand against Stan Crowley and the "Crowley Doctrine." He was equally disappointed when certain brethren (some formerly & some presently with the Buda-Kyle congregation) stood against Crowley but inconsistently supported Florida School of Preaching, and GBN. Rick gave me certain messages to deliver to some who are doing less than what they know is right. Some he rebuked to their face (like an elder from Southwest that he saw at a basketball game).

Rick had a tremendous sense of humor and told us that he did not want brethren "moping around" at his funeral. So note, please, "no moping." Jennifer showed me his Bible today, and a note he wrote some time ago on the page where 2 Tim. 4 was located--he wanted 2 Tim. 4:7 on his tombstone. In Rick's case, we believe it to be warranted and accurate. Rick fought a good fight, Rick finished the course, Rick kept the faith. I last talked with Rick Tuesday evening. He had one of his best days in weeks, yet he said his stomach pain was getting worse. He started running a high fever and Thursday morning was unresponsive by 11 am. His sons tried to load him into the family vehicle for a trip to the hospital. Rick died in the front yard, despite efforts by firefighters and EMS to resuscitate him. He was tired, and his body ravaged by disease. Now he is free from suffering, and his works do indeed follow him. I am so thankful that I knew and served with Rick Heimburger.

Brotherly,
Lynn Parker