Cornerstone No . 184 , page 4
Mario Jean Gehring 13th July 1930 – 15th December 2016
Born in Zurich on 13th July 1930 , Mario grew up alongside his sister Sonia , experiencing tough times of rationing in the difficulties of the pre-war and war years . At the age of 20 , Mario left Zurich to meet the world and follow his ambitions . Throughout his life Mario was always thinking big and no obstacle was insurmountable , no problem ever too much that it could not be challenged . He is also remembered as a devoted and faithful child of God , a beloved husband , father and grandfather , a loving brother and a good friend to many . At his funeral , his family affirmed how Mario lived his life to the full : with positive energy and a lively interest in the world about him . As a family man and a man of the world , he travelled extensively and in his latter years , continued to be interested and engaged with world events . As his family said of him , so it is also true of our experience of Mario at the Scots Kirk : that in so many ways and in all the highs and lows of our life he was very much a “ go to person ”. Whether working together with André on matters concerning the church buildings or in consultation with others for the smooth running and management of the church , we are thankful to God for his place in our common story . No doubt in facing future challenges , many of us will have occasion to think back and reflect with gratitude that when he was amongst us , Mario ’ s life was a blend of humility and strength : always ready to inform , encourage and challenge us and always , with a sense of adventure and fun in life . He loved us ! Compassionate and generous , Mario saw need and met it with natural spontaneity and optimism . The plight of the poor and the sight of injustice in the world fired his heart and strengthened his resolve to act . He loved a challenge and would take himself beyond his personal comfort zone , often