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