John P. Overton - 1945-2008

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Dear Royal Rangers Family:

It is with great sadness that we wish to inform you that on Sunday evening, June 22nd at around 9:30 pm, New York District Commander John P. Overton went to be with the Lord. Commander John had suffered a heart attack while at his home in Amherst, NY. He will be deeply missed.

John was one of the longest-standing district commanders in our nation, having served for the past 21 years (1987-2008). He was the recipient of the Royal Rangers district commander’s “Silver Eagle Award” 18 times. Prior to becoming district commander, John served as district training coordinator and served in Royal Rangers at his home church, Evangel A/G (Outpost 66) in Buffalo.

John served his country in both the U.S. Air Force and Army Reserves. He was chosen as NY District Honor Bound “Man of the Year” in 2005. John had a great love for God, his family and his country. His combined love for the outdoors and for the souls of boys compelled him serve in the Royal Rangers ministry for all these years. John’s vision was to see boys won for Christ and to have a camp facility in New York State were boys from across the district can come and enjoy God’s creation while learning more about our Savior, Jesus. This vision began with the Royal Rangers Camp in Greene, NY, in 2000.

We ask that you please lift Mrs. Ellie Overton, their daughter, two sons and the entire Overton family in prayer for peace and comfort at this difficult time.

We thank the Lord for giving us a leader that not only served with excellence but who also took great pride and joy in his ministry and in the lives of those that were, and continue to be blessed by the Royal Rangers. We are take comfort in knowing that Commander John will hear the words from our Lord, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Wake will be at the:
Lester H. Wedekindt Inc
Funeral Home
3290 Delaware Ave.
Kenmore, NY 14217
716-877-7979

Viewing will be on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at:
2 to 4 PM and 7 to 9 PM

The funeral Thursday, June 26, 2008
11 AM will be at the church:

Evangel Assembly of God
1800 Maple Rd.
Williamsville, NY 14221
716-688-4941

Interment will be at the Acacia Park and Resthaven Cemetery
4215 No. Tonawanda Creek Rd.,
North Tonawanda, NY 14120

There will be a lunch following interment at:
Evangel Assembly of God
1800 Maple Rd.
Williamsville, NY 14221
716-688-4941

At the request of John's wife Ellie, in lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the New York District Assemblies of God Office, 8130 Oswego Rd, Liverpool, NY 13088-0039, designated for the New York District Royal Rangers.

NY District Royal Rangers
June 23, 2008