It is not often in life we get to walk with giants, but I have known and loved a giant, and it is such a blessing.

When you know John Bovee, you know a giant. John has always been a small man in stature but John is a giant in so many ways.

I first met John at church, where he was the official greeter at the church door. John always wore a suit to church, because that is the way he honored his Lord. When we became members of the church, John was the first to welcome us. Since that time, John and I have been prayer partners. I prayed for John and he prayed for me. I could share anything with John and he would pray about it. I prayed for him many times, too.

John was a warrior on so many levels. You see, John was a grape farmer. He fought the elements, vineyard pests, and equipment when it would break down. He fought to get his own son the best cancer treatment. Recently, he battled cancer and WON even though it took his voice. During that time, I prayed for him fervently. When I was in the hospital for five days, he prayed for me.

Two weeks ago, when I saw John at church, his warm handshake let me know he was still around to listen and pray.

For many years, our church continued to elect John as a deacon because of John’s great love that spilled over us all of the time. He loved his Lord, his beautiful wife Kathy, his family, and we, his church family. Over the years, he was so selfless and pulled people out of ditches, shoveled snow out of driveways for shut-ins, and brought people without transportation to church. He never stopped talking about Jesus to anyone he met, because that was his first love.

Four days ago, John was ‘walking” his dog as he often did with his tractor. As he turned, his tractor lost traction and tipped over a bank. John jumped off so the tractor did not land on him. After 9 hours, rescuers and a search dog found him still alive and with a smile. However, John’s 88-year-old body sustained many fractures. So many prayed. I prayed furiously for my prayer warrior.

Today, John got to go be with Jesus and we will miss him so much. We are so thankful we got to walk with a giant.

Until we see you again, John E. Bovee – September 4, 2023 – on angel wings to see Jesus!