Dr. Paul Richard Fink

1930 - 2013

Dr. Paul Richard Fink obituary, 1930-2013, Madison Heights, VA

BORN

1930

DIED

2013

FUNERAL HOME

Whitten Monelison Chapel

3966 South Amherst Highway

Madison Heights, Virginia

Paul Fink Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 8, 2013.

Dr. Paul Richard Fink, 83, of Madison Heights, went home to be with his Lord, Saturday, September 7, 2013 at Lynchburg General Hospital. He was the loving and devoted husband of Mary Louana Allen Fink for sixty-two years.

Born February 6, 1930 in Tucson, AZ, he was the son of the late Louis Phillip and Sula Frazier Fink and was also preceded in death by three brothers, Lloyd, Louis, and Glenn Fink. Dr. Fink was the Founder and Teacher of the Amherst County Bible Institute in Madison Heights, retired College Professor with the Liberty University School of Religion and Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, IN and was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean War. He was a member of Grace Baptist Church in Madison Heights and also the Patterson Memorial Grace Brethren Church in Roanoke.

In addition to his wife, Dr. Fink is survived by six children, Anne Marie Truax and husband Jesse of Salem, Catherine Joann Eubank and husband Mark Steven of Monroe, MI, Dawn Renee Hite and husband Chris of Cheyenne, WY, Glenn Allen Fink and wife Sherrill of Richland, WA, Jerry Lee Fink and wife Lisa of Forest and Gary Wayne Fink and wife Leecy, of Madison Heights.

Dr. Fink is also survived by twenty grandchildren, Kristen N. Truax, Jesse D. Truax, Jr., Heather M. Truax, Allison K. Fink, Ryan E. Fink, Jerry L. Fink, Jr., Spencer L. Fink, Dylan M. Bishop, Raven N. Bishop, Daniel Eubank, Rebekkah R. Eubank, Jonathan Eubank, Hannah Hite, Mary C. Hite, Julius C. Hite, Madeline Fink, Cameron P. Fink, Jenna K. Fink, Eliza G. Fink, and Amelia Fink and three great grandchildren, Jackson D. Truax, Gracie Truax, and Charlee Truax.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 11, 2013 at Thomas Road Baptist Church with the Rev. Jesse D. Truax and the Rev. Dan Lee officiating. Interment with military honors by American Legion Post 16 will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 6-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at the Welcome Center on the campus of Liberty University.

Whitten Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Monelison Chapel is serving the family.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Liberty University School of Religion.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Not sure what to say?

October 3, 2014

Gene Crouch

As with many others, Dr. Fink's class in Bible Study methods was the great need of my life. I pleaded with our Lord for a good course and He lead me to Grace Seminary where not only did I learn how to put the pieces together in Bible Study but also received significant guidance regarding putting together a message outline. Both of these I have taught to students in churches and schools in various parts of the USA and in other countries.

September 24, 2014

Rick Vasquez

I just noticed on LU's web site, after I googled, Dr. Paul Fink, that next to his name was (1930-2013). I am very sorry to hear of this news. To the Fink Family, I want you to know how much Dr. Paul Fink impacted my life. I took his BS 250 in 1979, in my first year at Liberty. This was the famous "Inductive Bible Study Methods" Class. My life has never been same since. I sat in on the course next year to get just a little more of this powerful class by his wonderful Man of God. I last wrote Dr. Fink 2/13/12. He remembered me and replied on 2/15/12. I will never forget him.

September 1, 2014

I didn't know of Dr Fink's passing until it was mentioned at our annual meeting of the Association of Grace Brethren Ministers in July. He was my mentor and friend. Without his encouragement and recommendation, I could not have had the career I've had. Eternally grateful.
Donald P. Shoemaker
Pastor Emeritus, Grace Community Church of Seal Beach, CA
Senior Chaplain, Seal Beach Police Department

December 19, 2013

Lauren Reynolds

Dear Fink Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I only knew him as a student and I shed tears for the world has lost a wonderful man. His gain! May you be comforted by knowing you will be with him soon and for forever - full of joy!

I learned of his passing as I was looking up your address to send you all a Christmas card this year. There are only a few professors I do that for and he was one. He taught well and he loved better. I so vividly remember him tearing up when talking about the Lord's adoption of His people, the goodness of the Lord, etc. I also so much enjoyed when he spoke of his family - there was such love there. He was such an example to me. I am forever thankful for his life and influence.

October 23, 2013

Marc Corbett

"Good morning! Sorry we started to soon for you." Those may be the words that our dear Dr. Fink says to anyone who arrives in glory after him! I learned about Docs death just before leading a group of college students on inductive Bible study. He taught me to let my conscience be bound only by the Word of God. He and Mrs. Mary modeled loving students, faithfulness, sacrifice, hospitality, joy, adoption, humor, wit, cool cars, & great stories. He served in my wedding at First Baptist Dallas (1999). I can still hear him telling me the night before the wedding: "I told you, you wouldn't be able to sleep!" Mrs. Mary, the love you all have shared with so many, we are sharing with others. The Finks have shared not only the Gospel of God, but their very lives as well! - 1 Thess. 2:8

October 21, 2013

Dr. Fink was my mentor while at Grace Theological Seminary 1966-1968. He challenged my mind and my faith. I would not have made it through this life without his challenge. He was more than a professor. He called me "the Arminian". I believe I challenge his resolve. When the day of graduation came unknowing to me he asked permission to place my stole. He was behind me and stepped up to my back. First the seminary seniors stood and clapped, then all of the seminary students, then the college students and then the entire crowd. I finally turned around to find out why. There he was, Mr. Unpredictable. I have missed him and look fowarded to joining him and spending time with him that life never afforded us to have. A dear friend of mine, Dr. Vernon Whaley, sat in front of him in Chapel. I understand he would often ask about me. Still interested in his student after all these years. I pray my work in Christian Education made him proud. I have always remembered him, especially when challenged. Thank you to the family for sharing this great man of God. David Keith Kenemer, La Vergne, TN

September 30, 2013

Chuck Donald

One of my favorite (and toughest in a good way) Professors at Liberty. I thank God for Dr. Fink's challenge to excellence. I have a distinct memory of Dr. Fink throwing a piece of chalk at me (I had nodded-off to sleep on the front row -8a.m. class). Dr. Fink said, "Mr. Donald. Stop trying to look at me through your eyelids!" I would listen to his comments on sermons in the Library just for fun (but also for insights on preaching/speaking).

September 27, 2013

In the mission field and receiving this note late. There is not enough pages to share what he and Mary had been to us. Of the many things in Scriptures, there is a word that was given to a relationship that a man had with God. He was called a friend of God.

Doctor and Professor Fink was many things to many people. Several years ago, they came out to our small island in the Marianas - Micronesia and there they both spent time with us in ministry... our front lines.

That they called us "friends" and that they prayed for us daily, oh.. how that we can say anything else.

Sarita and I loved him Mary. We love you Mary! :-)Tony

Rota/Guam

September 17, 2013

Matthew Bryant

Dr. Fink truly helped me understand how to study and teach God's Word to others. Impacted my life and others in a way that cannot be fully measured! His presence will be sorely missed here but one of God's champions is finally home.

September 14, 2013

Deborah Gatz

Along with so many others writing in this guest book, I, too, remember being in Dr. Fink's Inductive Bible Study class, but I also know him from the halls of the School of Religion when I worked there part time as a student/secretary in the early 80's.

Both Dr. & Mrs. Fink are people I can mark in my life as those who have encouraged me in my walk with the Lord. Every Christmas we have looked forward to receiving their family updates, and, of course, who can forget the "Wizard of Id" cartoons posted on his office door that originally said "The King is a fink!" and which he changed to "The Fink is a KING!"

He was a prince among men and in my heart I knew that he not only loved the Lord deeply, he deeply loved serving Him. I can imagine him exhorting each one of us to live out II Tim. 1:13,14 as he now looks into the eyes of his Savior and Lord and knows it was all well worth it. With great fondness of memory, Deb Gatz (LU class 1983)

September 13, 2013

Wendy Williamson

So sad to hear this news but so glad for Dr. Fink as he's finally with his Savior! He was my favorite teacher at LU and I was so thankful for his classes and interest in my life. I serve in ministry with Word of Life in the States and also in Korea and he would practice his Korean on me. :) He was a great man and I'll be praying for his family during this time. Blessings,
Wendy Williamson

September 12, 2013

It was 1958 when we met Paul & Mary Lou Fink in Winona Lake, IN, as part of the Grace College faculty. That was 55 years ago. A most outstanding memory was when they came to the hospital to visit our new baby girl, and brought with them a huge number of baby outfits - enough to clothe her for 2 years.

In 1979 both the Finks and Garlocks arrived at Liberty University to be part of the faculty. Here we taught together and our friendship has continued over these 55 years.

Our love and prayers are with all the family as they go through these difficult days. What a comfort to know that Paul is "Safe In the Arms of Jesus" and that we will see him again in Heaven someday.

Don & Mary Lou Garlock, Lynchburg, VA

September 12, 2013

Charles Fuller

Dr. Fink was such a great man. He inspired me to press on when things became difficult. The skills he taught me in Inductive Bible Study continue to serve the body well. I pray for peace and comfort for his family.

September 12, 2013

Anthony Hughes

The passion for the scripture Dr. Fink taught me from the very first Inductive Bible Study class will always be instilled in me. Thankful for the opportunity to learn from such a great man. I will be forever grateful for his influence on my life!

September 12, 2013

Mrs. Fink, I worked for you as Education Secretary when Dr. Parker was the Chair. I'm so sorry you have lost your mate, but we know God has him today. We have to feel some joy inside when we know our darling husbands are with Jesus. I didn't know Dr. Fink well, but when I visited your home with Nancy, I could see how you two fit really well together. May our wonderful Lord be with you and your family during this sad time.
Bonnie Alldredge

September 12, 2013

Jarrod Stillings

I was saddened to hear that we have lost a man who was so influential and impactful for the purpose of Christ. I had Dr. Fink for Greek 401 at Liberty University. The class was challenging, but Dr. Fink taught me lessons that I still use today in preparing to teach God's word. I will be forever grateful for the investment that he had in my life.

September 12, 2013

Sarah Stevens

I will always remember the wonderful class of Bible 350. He taught me a lot. His famous words of "All means all and thats all, all means" still ring in my head today- and I use it on my children :) Thank you so much. You will be missed

September 12, 2013

Ron Minton

I had him for at Grace seminary Homiletics 1, 2, and 3 - which are still profitable for me. Better than any man I ever met, he taught how to get a sermon from Greek and Hebrew diagramming. When you finish, you have a truly biblical sermon outline, not a home made one.
Also, he would take everyone's picture the first day of class and the second day, he had every student's name memorized by their face.
He always said he adopted so many kids so he could make finks out of them all.
He and Dr. John Whitcomb were the two most influential profs I had.
Paul Fink was an example in family and ministry.

September 11, 2013

Milton Mohr

To Mrs. Fink and family: Please accept the comfort and compassion intended for your souls as you adjust to Dr. Fink's absence but celebrate his homegoing at the same time: Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Eternal Holy Spirit thank you for the soul of Dr. Paul Fink and Your Love shone through it during his 83 year earthly sojourn. I ask You to touch the souls of his wife and family members and his community with assurance and joy through the ministry of Your Son Jesus Christ as they celebrate his homegoing. Anoint their souls with the oil of comfort and compassion as they adjust to Dr. Fink's absence during their earthly sojourns. In the Name of Jesus Christ I pray.

Posted by Milton Mohr

September 11, 2013

Rev. Isaac Luk

May God rest his soul, and bring hope to those who are remaining, so that they can carry on his legacy for the Lord. Rev. Luk, Omaha, Nebraska.

September 11, 2013

David Bobbey

Dr Paul Fink was my practical theology prof at GraceTheological Seminary. His classes were never "get over" classes and you had to work to pass. He truly cared for his students, loved The Word and the God of the Word, seeking to share that passion with us. Thank you, Dr Fink, for your steadfastness! You have finished well and left a Christ honoring legacy. Chaplain David Bobbey USA(Ret)

September 11, 2013

Kurt Jones

Dr Fink was definitely my favorite teacher at Liberty. I'll never forget some of his sound, but stern, advice to me as a young preacher in his Homiletics class. God used him to help shape my ministry and effectiveness of the Kingdom. I hope I can do the same for the next generation!

September 11, 2013

Ken Cleaver

Paul was my neighbor in our office hallway for 7 years. Every conversation we had blessed me. Each time I walked out of his office he'd make sure to get in a "Kenneth, you're a good man." Every time he said it, I was stunned. Why would this godly professor think I'm a good man? I suppose it was because he saw Christ in every Christian. Paul, you, sir, are a good man. Thanks for running the race without faltering, and thanks for finishing well.

September 11, 2013

Chris Hite

I have been so blessed to be a part of his family. He enriched our lives through his testimony for our Lord Jesus Christ. He was more than my father-in-law. He was my mentor and a true friend. When I first met him, I was intimidated by his knowledge of God's Word and his dedication to serving the Lord. What a privilege to be able to call him "Dad."

September 11, 2013

Devin Quesenberry

It was during Dr. Fink's class that myself, Danny, and Joel strengthened our friendship as we were prepared for many sermons, lectures, and projects. We had no idea back then that God would later call us to St. Petersburg to plant a church. In many ways, Dr. Fink was an instrument that God used to position us for his call, but before even his teaching role in our life, he was a friend and a role model. It is both our hope and our prayer to champion many of the skills that we first learned from him. We can only hope to leave like his.

September 11, 2013

Joshua Saunders

I will never forget Dr. Fink and his Inductive Bible Study class. He constantly encouraged us to keep on keeping on. He likened his course to a marathon and slowly but surely he led us to the end of that marathon with a commentary on 3rd John in hand. He was a tough professor, but one I looked forward to having. Dr. Fink was definitely a character. I can still picture that time he wrote on the projection screen instead of the dry erase board like yesterday. His teachings have helped open my eyes to the study of God's Word. I will always remember BIBLE 350 and I will never forget Dr. Fink.

September 11, 2013

Steve Nicholes WOL Bible Institute

Dr Fink's Inductive Bible Study class was the hardest, most time consuming, best class I ever had. I have taught many others what Paul taught me to students here in NE Asia. I was privileged to take the class with his wife Mary. Thank you Dr Fink! May your tribe increase!

September 11, 2013

Randy Braley

May the Lord's comfort be with the Fink family. Of all the great teachers I had at Liberty, Dr. Fink was one of the most challenging and rewarding. The respect for the Word of God and emphasis on correctly interpreting it that I learned from Dr. Fink is priceless, and has greatly affected my teaching, preaching, and life to this day. In this day of rampant careless handling of the Word of God, we need more men of God like Dr. Paul Fink.

September 11, 2013

Vickie Childress

Prayers and Blessings to all who love Dr. Fink. Romans 12:1-2, changed my life in Dr. Fink's Romans class in the early '80's at LBC. Dr Fink taught "The Word" and God opened our hearts. What a legacy!

September 11, 2013

Glenn Fink

It was my great privilege and joy to be the oldest son of this great man. From him I learned the importance of true and sincere faith. He never wavered in his faith that God would provide, even though he didn't see immediately the answer he asked for. Whenever I called or wrote he always told me he prayed for me every single day. His legacy, partly shown in these pages, inspires me to run the race to win! I want to be like him. I am more grateful than I could possibly tell you to be his son.

September 11, 2013

Kevin O'Brien

Today I mourn the loss of a mentor and celebrate his homegoing. Dr. Fink was among the most influential men in my life. He taught his students to love God above all else. For twenty years I have been haunted in the best of possible ways by a simple statement to me after a sermon in homiletics: "Kevin, you clearly have the text. My question is, does the text have you?" God continues to bless the work of his faithful servant through the lives of all he has touched.

September 11, 2013

Sasha Rasmussen

Dr. Fink was an enormous influence on my life and ministry. His good natured and good humoured demeanor made him easy to love, but his fiery passion for the glory of God and his love of Christ made him a man to respect and follow as a student. I didn't realize how important his classes were until I started ministering and had study and preach the word of God week in and week out. Everytime I went back to Liberty he was one of the few I always had to see. Dr. Fink will be missed, but his spiritual legacy continues in my life and here in Argentina where God has called me to minister.

September 11, 2013

To the family of Dr. Paul Fink, May it comfort you to know that others care. I am a former student of Amherst Co. Bible Inst. Grace Baptist Church Madison Heights Va. "Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal" It was an honor knowing him, and he will never be forgotten. With deepest Sympathy. Shelby Austin

September 11, 2013

Vince Miller

What a great man of God Dr. Fink was! He taught me so much about the Bible and Theology, and he was just a great man to be around. My condolences to his family. Liberty and and his many students over the years will miss him greatly!

September 11, 2013

Wendy Pulliam Bradsher

Mrs Fink and family,

My prayers and thoughts are many. May the spirit of the Lord surround you and your family continually. It was a privilege to have him as one of my bible professors.

September 11, 2013

Phil Gatz

News traveled fast through the Gatz network regarding Dr Fink's home going with two nieces on campus. I have powerful memories of the Finks and that might seem odd for someone who never had either one in a college class in his time at Liberty. It is memory of kindness and consistency.

Kindness in that they willingly opened their home to their future son-in-law and his college buddies when the whole Fink brood was still living at home. I haven't ridden a horse since once of those excursions to the farm. I laugh thinking of Jesse trying to drive their Chevy Chevette as if it was his powerful Dodge. That kindness has extended through the years with the annual Christmas letter and a dinner engagement twenty-some years later when bringing a daughter to Liberty's CFAW.

It was at that dinner where Dr. Fink's consistency shown through. He showed me years earlier that he just wasn't a university professor, but one who shepherded in his community. Memories of the small PCA church in Madison Heights connected with bible teaching work outside Liberty connected with my niece's telling of her recent experience in his inductive bible study class. These all speak to a legacy of consistency - believing the word of God was true, meant to be understood and applied and to be taught while he had breath. For me, though he was a Navy man, he "died with his boots" on in the service of the kingdom.

May God's grace continue to pour over Mrs Fink (our favorite, "Mary, a fink!"), Jesse, Anne and the rest of the family. Y'all have been very productive.

September 11, 2013

Gene Crouch

Sorrowful for us who know and appreciate him but joyful for him as he is now with his Lord. He is where there is perfect following of the will of our God. We too look forward to that. Thanks for the information. He was one of my profs and one from whom I learned significant things about study and preaching.

September 11, 2013

Lauren Clark

I was so saddened to hear of Dr Finks passing. I know he is at peace and with the lord and for that I am comforted ,but this world has lost a wonderful wonderful man. I will always remember how kind he was. I will be praying for the entire Fink family.

September 10, 2013

Tom Bryant

Dr. Fink daily influences my life. From learning diagrammatical analysis to how to thematically "move" a sermon -- I draw upon his teaching. I appreciated his wit, commitment to theological emphasis from the pulpit, and for giving a young pastor an opportunity to teach at ACBI, I miss him fondly. All Glory be to God for the Ministry of this Departed Servant!
The Rev. Dr. Tom Bryant, The WELL, Forest, VA

September 10, 2013

Lee Copeland

Dr. Fink was my homiletics professor, 1971-75, while I attended Grace Theological Seminary, Winona Lake, Indiana. He helped me in my first year find a job and a place to live for my family. His friendly counsel and encourgement have been a great inspiration to 35 years of ministry. I greatly value even more now his joy, wit, and insight. Though dead,yet he speaks. I look forward to seeing him again.

September 10, 2013

Jeff Crowder

To the family of Dr. Fink, I am truly saddened at the news of Dr. Fink's passing. For him I am happy that he is now with Christ. He was a great influence on me. I left school without finishing in 1990, needing only 30 credit hours to graduate. I promised him I would finish after he quoted me a statistic that almost nobody graduates if they quit. I am glad he got to see me walk in 2008 whether or not he remembered me or not. What a blessing he was to Liberty University, many churches, and students. He will be missed.

September 10, 2013

Mrs Fink and family Dr.Fink really was a good teacher my husband and I sat under him for 3 year.He he really was a good man and teacher and leader He will be missed. John 14:1-4 AS DR.Fink would always say at the end of class GOD be with you till we meet again!!!! I say Amen to that.Arthur & Ellie Robinson

September 10, 2013

David Shields

I had the great privilege of taking Dr. Fink for three semesters. He taught me how little I knew about teaching the Bible. He impacted me so much just with his life. It was impossible to not see how much he loved the Lord and how incredible this man was. I feel absolutely blessed that I got to witness a small part of this mans life.

September 10, 2013

Jeff Peeler

I had Dr. Fink for Inductive Bible Study ("Don't study the passage till you are exhausted, study the passage until it is exhausted") and Homoletics 1 and 2 at Liberty University. He was a tough prof...and one of the best. He awarded me "most improved" in Homoletics class. I think I was pretty rough as a preacher at the start, but I surely felt honored to receive the recognition from Dr. Fink. I know he rests in joy in the presence of our beloved Savior. Till we meet again sir!

September 10, 2013

Dr. Edward Gross

Dr. Fink's teaching and methods have been my constant advisors for 40 years, as he was my professor at Grace Theological Seminary. Later, as a pastor, I sought his counsel on several occasions. He dedicated our daughter, Julia, to the Lord and spoke to our church. His love for God and His Word blessed our family and God's people richly. How precious that His last words were, "Jehovah, my Jehovah".

September 10, 2013

David Pfonner

A Great instuctor and a Great man of God. I still refer to his teachings in my ministry.

September 10, 2013

john&debbie reed

We are so deeply sorrowful for your loss and the loss of a church memeber. we know he is happy and joyful being with the lord. bless you all. gone but never be forgotten.we will always remembered. from the reed family.

September 10, 2013

Linda Long

Words seem inadequate to express the sadness I feel about Dr. Fink's death. I am here to support you in your grieving process. With sincere sympathy,

September 10, 2013

Pamerla Johnson

Mrs. Fink and Family, I am very sad to hear of Dr. Fink's passing. He was a great teacher of the scriptures. The Amherst County Bible Institute was one of his gifts to this area. I pray your strength in the coming days and comfort knowing that Dr. Fink is in heaven with the Lord.
Amherst County Bible Institute Graduate 2012

September 10, 2013

I am so sorry to hear the news, but I do not grieve as pagans do. I remember Paul well when I taught at LU. He was a good man.

September 10, 2013

Charlotte Howett

Dear Mary, Russ just called to let us know about hubby. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Remembering our days at Uphouses Trailer Court and you being my avon lady. That goes back a few years. Trusting the Lord to care for you in the months that follow in your time of grieve.

September 10, 2013

Dr. Larry Edwards

A tough professor, but he was correct. I endured his 3 woes of homiletics at Grace Seminary and I still remember his advice to me.

September 10, 2013

Larry Humberd

I learned to preach under Dr. Fink's teaching 34 years ago, and I still use his emphasis on exegetical order. Let the scriptures do the teaching. His legacy will impact future generations.

September 10, 2013

Rev. Deborah Moore & Warren Moore

To Mrs. Fink & Family:

You are in my prayers, I will miss Dr. Fink who was a great teacher given the gift from God. Always will I remember the classes in which he taught me in the Amherst County Bible Institute.

And one of his favorite sayings he would give if he did not have the answer to a question that you may would ask, he would say Brother or Sister I just don't know. What a wonderful person Dr. Paul Fink was, one who cared for his students dearly.

Mrs. Fink God saw that it was time for his son to come home, so that he can continue his teaching in heaven,and the Lord will take him by his hand and say, come my son come for I have a place for you to teach my children in heaven.

God Bless you and your family, as God sends his Angels to watch over you and your family.

September 10, 2013

Homer Massey

Paul Fink was my long time colleague at the School of Religion, before I moved into the Seminary faculty. His office door seemed to always be open, and he always had an encouraging word for everyone. He will be missed but the legacy he leaves is great.

Posted by Homer Massey

September 10, 2013

Will Honeycutt

One of my greatest models, mentors and brothers in the Lord, Paul Fink, is now R.I.P. (Rejoicing in the Presence). He preached the Gospel and the whole counsel of God and taught many a man like me how to do the same. I still use the skills he gave me in study, sermon prep, teaching and preaching to this day. Now he gets to cash in on the Gospel promise he preached and propagated; life eternal in the very presence of the Savior he loves. My prayers are with Mary, Jerry and the rest of the family, as well as all whom he has pastored as they go through this time of mourning. May their joy in a life lived well and reunion in the life to come soon outweigh their sadness and grief.

September 10, 2013

Allison Hoyle

I had the honor of being in Dr. Fink's class last May. I loved being in his class and getting to hear his wisdom. He took time to get to know his students and made sure we understood. He had quite the humor and was able to entertain his students as well as keep then engaged to their studies. I will definitely take what I have learned from that class and from him through my life.
Thank you Dr. Fink for everything you have done for this school and for your students. You will be truly missed but we know that there is a celebration up in heaven.

September 10, 2013

Tim Wagner

I am deeply grateful for the life and ministry of Dr. Fink. His influence continues to profoundly impact my life 20 years after being in class with him. More than a century ago, Phillip Brooks said "I think, again, that it is essential to the preacher's success that he should thoroughly enjoy his work...As we read the lives of all the most effective preachers of the past, or as we meet the men who are powerful preachers of the Word today, we feel how certainly and how deeply the very exercise of their ministry delights them." Dr. Fink thoroughly loved inductive Bible study and expository preaching and he passed that love on to those of us who were privileged enough to study under him. He will be profoundly missed and we grieve with and will pray for his family.

September 10, 2013

Scotty Moore

I did not know him, but your family will be in our prayers.

September 10, 2013

Bill Lynch

A life well spent!!! I had him for multiple classes and interacted with him while a student at Liberty. He always took time for his students.
Only eternity will show the influence this man had on the world for his Savior. A fisherman teaching hundreds of students to not only fish, but to teach others to become fisherman as well. Thank you Dr. Fink.

September 10, 2013

Chris Poluikis

Dr. Fink passed on to me his high view of Scripture and a love for studying it. Even today when I develop a proposition for a sermon, I ask myself, "Would Dr. Fink approve?" He was not only a mentor but a friend. I have met men in ministry all over this country who have been influenced by him.
I always secretly thought that he wished he had been a Marine instead of a sailor. One last time, "Semper Fi, Dr. Fink."

September 10, 2013

Jana Terrell

Gary, So sorry to hear about your father. My heart and prayers are with you and your family.

September 10, 2013

David Myers

Dr. Fink was one of the most influential men in my early ministry. It was under his influence the he birthed within me a commitment to and love for the "study" of the Word of God. Bible 250 was one of the most grueling classes that I encountered at while at Liberty (1985-88). However, Dr. Fink had a way of helping you to discover value in your study. That trait is what has led to a lifetime of continual study. I am eternally grateful for his investment into my life. One quote I have used from him on many occasions that was stated in response to a fellow classmate's question that went something like this. “Dr. Fink, when you ask us to write out all the verses on sanctification, how many of those are we to write.” Dr. Fink responded and I quote, “Young man, all means all and that's all, all means.” Please know that we (multitudes of young men and women who learned from him) stand with love and respect for Dr. Paul Fink. We also kneel in prayer for you as family and friends as you mourn his home-going and as we await the glorious appearing of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

September 10, 2013

Matthew Homan

Like so many that have already posted, I am greatly indebted to his teaching in the three classes I had him. He is the most influential professor I have ever had. Every sermon I prepare and every text in the Bible I study has the remnants of Dr. Fink. In preaching class we had to turn in an evaluation to every classmate after he finished his in-class sermon. Dr. Fink would come on the microphone from the recording room, "Alright class, give him your valentines." I loved the class stretches he would lead us in to produce our preaching voices. I laugh with friends still today over his class humor that made such strenuous courses enjoyable to better train us for the ministry. I am grieved today but joyous that he has met his Savior face to face.

September 10, 2013

Dr. Fink was a professor who was talked about in the halls of the school of religion. He had high expectations for his past, present and future students.

My favorite Dr. Fink quote, "All means All and that is All All means."

Great legacy that will impact generations to come. Thank you God for allowing Dr. Fink to impact my life, my study of your word and how I communicate it.

Jeff Smyth
LU-96 Seminary Alumnus

September 10, 2013

My prayers are with you all! Love you, Dawn!

September 10, 2013

Kyle Miller

Dr. Paul Fink was not just a devoted teacher and devoted to Christ Jesus but he had a way of being a true personal friend in whom one could trust. I can imagine Faye being near the front lines of Heaven to help greet Paul as he entered into God's presence. I am forever grateful for his friendship.

September 10, 2013

COL Mark Eubank

One of Dr Fink's nick names was Skipper. I gave him that when I was dating his daugher, Cathy. I was Army and he was Navy so we hit it off well, at least in our service while we both stood by our respective service branch. He was a kind and loveing father in law to me and was always pleasent in his demeanor to all. An example of a calm, peaceful man of God. I and all who have had the honor or knowing "Skipper" will always remember him, his dedicatd service to his counrty, his love of family, and his devotion always to God.
Anchors away! We miss you so much but know we will be with you again some day and all will be new. God Bless

Mark S Eubank
COL, EN
Afghanistan

September 9, 2013

Bob Chisholm

One of the truly great teachers has gone to be with the Savior. I had Dr. Fink for homiletics at Grace Seminary in Spring 1976. He helped me overcome my fear of public speaking. He was both demanding and encouraging. He pushed us to be our best, then praised us when we made incremental steps forward. Every week the most improved preacher received a pencil; during the course of the semester we all got at least one. I can still hear him urging me to abandon my tripod stance and eliminate my glottal fry. A couple of years ago, when I was invited to give a guest lecture and sermon at Liberty University, I was able to reconnect with him, visit his classes, and give his current students a pep talk. As always, he was encouraging and made me feel so welcome. Our loss is heaven's gain. Robert Chisholm, Chair and Professor of Old Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary

September 9, 2013

Nathan B. Campbell

Dr. Fink was one of my favorite professors here at Liberty. Every class period I was in awe of the love and knowledge of God that this man still possessed in his old age. Although I just had one class with him, everyday I saw him as a sweet grandpa and wise friend. Dr. Fink is truly an inspiration to me and as a young man an example of how to finish well and love Jesus avobe all else until the end, and most asuredley now Dr. Fink's love for God will be forever complete in the presence of his Savior and Love. Thank you God for Dr. Fink and using him to impact my life. Amen.

September 9, 2013

Catherine Purple

Though I did not know Dr. Fink personally, I saw his care, pride, and creative beauty he so lovingly worked into his daughter Dawn. Just by her I know he lived a good and blessed life. My condolences to all the families. I look forward to just being a butterfly on heaven's wall when you all get together for a family reunion. What a joyous time that will be!

September 9, 2013

What a wonderful teacher of the Bible! Dr. Fink has been a great influence and will be missed dearly. Praying for the Fink family

September 9, 2013

Charlie Scruggs

What an honor it was to know such a great man of God! I only had Dr. Fink for one class, but through that class he impacted my life by being such a personable guy by remembering my name and showing concern for me when I was not in class. The laughter and moments of wisdom from Dr. Fink has enriched my life all the more!

September 9, 2013

Audrey Willis

September 9, 2013

Ron Glass

I was a student in Dr. Fink's homiletics classes at Grace Theological Seminary between 1973-1976. His lasting legacy in my ministry was his insistence that we preachers give strict attention to the details of the text. I will never forget constructing an outline of the entire book of Jonah in which every word of the text had its own outline point, or the notorious commentary on 3 John. The discipline of faithfulness to the written text of Scripture on the part of the preacher as taught by Dr. Fink in his homiletics classes is one which has been formative to my entire ministry of nearly 40 years now. As hard as it was at the time, I have been grateful for it ever since. A whole generation of expositors can rise up and call him blessed.

September 9, 2013

Mike Royal

It would be impossible to measure the depth of his imprint on the Bride of Christ. Prayers to his family and dear friends, but much gratitude from all of us who benefited from his instruction.

September 9, 2013

Teresa Beasley

Dear Mrs. Fink and Family - I was so saddened on Saturday when I heard of Dr. Fink's Homegoing...not that I'm sad for him, but sad for all of us left behind. After sitting through Dr. Fink's ACBI classes for three years, I can just imagine how excited he was to see his Lord and Savior face to face! I look forward to seeing him again one day! My prayers are with all of you!

September 9, 2013

Scott McCorkle

I loved Dr. Fink. He was a powerful influence in my time in the school of religion at LU.

September 9, 2013

Jonathan Susman

It was truly a great blessing and delight to have taken 350 with a man who has served the Lord in teaching and ministry for so many decades. I rejoice that he has now heard those glorious words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant..."

September 9, 2013

christina wells

You will be missed Dr Fink. My prayers are with your family in their time of grief. Thank you for your guidance at fbc.

September 9, 2013

Kyle McDaniel

I had Dr. Fink for several classes during my coursework at LU. He was an excellent professor but I remember him most as a caring and godly man who was deeply concerned that we become godly men. I laugh because he always called me "Kurt" on accident instead of Kyle. We often called him "Yoda" behind his back because he was our Master in all things pertaining to Greek. He was respected and loved. I'm sorry for your loss, but his was a life well invested and the Lord used him quietly, but greatly.

September 9, 2013

Peter Battaglia

Dr. Fink is one of those legendary professors/mentors that you never forget as long as you live. The instruction I received under him has more than prepared me for seminary at DTS. As he used to say, having been through his Inductive Bible study class and both homiletics classes, I now have attained the "premillenial glow." Thank you for sharing him with us Mrs. Fink.

September 9, 2013

Dylan Brightbill

I cannot thank Dr. Fink enough for the knowledge and wisdom he show us when it came to studying the Bible. The things he taught shaped my personal study immensely and has help me draw deeper with the Lord. His class will always be remembered as one of my favorites. He will be greatly missed. We have the entire Fink family, and everyone he has impacted in our prayers.

September 9, 2013

Andrew McPheron

Dr. Fink was by far one of the most influential Professors I ever had. I had him in the fall of 2012 for Bible 350/Inductive Bible Study. I feel extremely honored and privileged to be able to say I was taught to study the scriptures by this man. His legacy will live on through the thousands of men and women he taught to study, and teach the Word of God.

September 9, 2013

Josh Rowley

So thankful that I had the opportunity to study under Dr. Fink during his final year teaching. His legacy will continue into eternity through the many students he taught who are now spread all over the earth. He will be missed!

September 9, 2013

Carol Johnson

Dr. Fink was such a blessing to all that he came in contact with. He was an excellent teacher to everyone at ACBI. I will miss him so much but knowing that he is with the Lord brings me comfort. Mrs. Fink, I am praying for your strength during this difficult time. God bless you and your family.

September 9, 2013

Kojo Asante

Dr. Fink taught me everything I know concerning homiletics. His warm personality was always welcoming. Whether it was passing by him in the hallways of the religion Hall or just stopping by his office to say hello. I remember him saying that He couldn't wait to see what my ministry would become. He inspired me to continue in preaching, regardless of my speech impediment. I will be forever grateful for His inspiration and humorous wit. What a heart he had to serve our King Jesus Christ! You are at Home with Jesus!

September 9, 2013

Mary and family, Paul brightened and blessed so many lives with his gentle humor and constant guiding hand that he will be sorely missed in this life but what rejoicing there must have been on Saturday in Heaven! Our hearts and prayers are with you all. Sincerely and with love and admiration-Barb and Toby Sherman

September 9, 2013

Josh D.

A wonderful man that loved the Lord above all. I was in his Bible 350 class last year, and I feel honored to be among the last students to have him as a professor. If I can live a life as meaningful and impacting as Dr. Fink, I will be a satisfied man when its my time to meet the Lord.

September 9, 2013

Robert DeLong

Dr. Fink was one of the most Godly professors I ever worked with. He was truly a blessing.

September 9, 2013

Ed Lewis

I so appreciated Paul Fink. He was a great teacher and mentor and challenger and he and his family were great examples. CE National bought his home as a place for our offices in 1980. Our facilities which have changed and expanded are a legacy to his memory. I am sorry for your loss but I know he makes Heaven that much richer!

September 9, 2013

Janice DeLong

Paul was such a blessing to us all. With his unique combination of spiritual depth and sparkling sense of humor, he was, indeed, one of a kind. Although Paul will be greatly missed here, I am sure that he is brightening up the lives of all up There. God comfort you, Mary.

September 9, 2013

Dave Cline

There is no scholar that I have read, met or studied under that I respect more than Dr. Fink. He was a genuine man who loved His Lord, His Lord's word, his family and his students. I still to this day almost 20 years later use the techniques he taught me in studying and presenting God's precious word. Dr. Fink was an advocate for expository preaching before it was cool - I can still hear him saying... "Stick to the text, nothing else you might say matters." I am so thankful to God for the training and example I received from Dr. Fink.

September 9, 2013

CAROL EAGLE

PRAYING FOR THE FINK FAMILY. YOU WILL SURLEY BE MISSED AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER ALL THE TALKS WE HAD AND VISITS AT YOUR HOME.YOU ARE A WONDERFUL MAN AND YOU WERE LIKE A GRANDFATHER TO ADRIANNA.I WILL MISS DOING YOUR PAPERWORK FOR ACBI.

September 9, 2013

Dayna Hayes

Dr. Fink touched so many lives at LU! Praying for his family and rejoicing that he's home in glory!
You will be missed Dr. Fink, thank you for your service to Christ.

September 9, 2013

Mike M.

My favorite memory of Dr. Fink was his response to the question "How long does our paper need to be?" He said our papers should be like a girl's skirt...long enough to cover the subject and short enough to keep it interesting. :)

September 9, 2013

Paul Fink was a great inspiration to me when I taught at Grace College. I will remember him fondly and pray for the rest of his family on his homecoming. Rest peacefully in God's presence as you have now finished your labors, and you have certainly heard, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Bob Arend

September 9, 2013

Benji Hall

I was so blessed to have Dr. Fink as a teacher! The impact he has made for God's kingdom cannot be overstated. He was a faithful, loving man of God who loved us enough as students to challenge us and share with us his love for God's Word. I look forward to seeing him again in heaven.

September 9, 2013

Jason Lock

Anything that I have been taught, trained in, and built upon was from what Dr. Fink taught me in homiletics. There was no other man that God put in my way to divide and teach the word of God that had a greater impact than Him.

September 9, 2013

J.C. Kimmer

Dr. Fink was THE most influential professor I had at Liberty University. My one class with him was worth 4 years of tuition. He gave me my foundation to be a seminary student & pastor. Every week I still use the methods I learned from his class. But he was more than a classroom teacher. He was always available in his office to lend personal advice. He gave me tough answers when I was looking for the easy way out. I took a picture of the two of us and gave it to him before I graduated. I was surprised to find it in his office nearly 10 years later when I made a visit to the campus. He said he prayed for me every day. He will be greatly missed! -BIBL 350 (Spring 1999)

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