There are people in your life in any field of work that help teach, train, disciple, and mentor you. In April, I lost two of my long-time mentors five days apart: Dr. Howard (Howie) Nourse and Donald Distelberg. Scripture teaches that “iron sharpens iron.” Howie and Don sharpened me, sometimes in a friendly way, and a few times behind closed doors in some “Big Boy Chats.” They challenged me to be a better fund and management consultant, husband, father, and a more committed follower of Christ.
Howie was an NCAA champ as the 6’ 9” center for Ohio State. Don cut his fundraising teeth at Calvin University in the advancement office and was a mile-wide and 50 miles deep with experience. Don was still working part time on TTG projects and was one of the most knowledgeable stewardship officers in the world.
Howie graduated to glory on April 18, 2021. He was 82 years old. I had a 20-minute phone call with Don on Thursday, April 22nd. He died on Friday, April 23rd. He was 75 years old. Shock would be an understatement! I hope I am ready to pass along the wisdom, knowledge, and know-how they shared with me over 30 years at TTG. I know I am ready! Howie and Don, rest in peace. You fought the good fight, you finished the course, and now you are enjoying eternity with your Savior.
I miss you both, Pat.
