Olivet students, faculty, and staff paid respects to the late Mrs. Edith Tinder, wife of OTCS Dean Dr. Donald Tinder at the Sun Valley Bible Chapel in Lafayette, California on January 8th.  Emails and letters came in from around the world, testifying to Mrs. Tinder’s life as a symbol of vitality and one of God’s beautiful creations.

“We prayed for Edie’s complete healing, and she has received it," wrote one of the letters.

She was born in 1943 in Baltimore, MD but spent most of her childhood in Eastern Congo and Burundi, Africa.  Mrs. Tinder studied at Wheaton College, majoring in Christian Education, then received her MA in Religion from Yale University Divinity School in 1967 while achieving academic excellence.  She lived a full life, rich in love and faith.  But after a long battle with Lupus, Mrs. Edie Tinder went to be with the Lord peacefully in her sleep on January 3rd, 2011.

Speakers at the service included Dr. Tinder, Dr. Carl Armerding, a long time friend of the Tinder's,  Mrs. Tinder’s two  sons Derek and Craig Tinder, family, and friends.  Mrs. Tinder was a true inspiration to others, showcasing her faith and love for people.  She started a life of missions at a very young age from Europe to Africa.  She served those in need, especially children through the Rainbow Centre ministry in Burundi, Africa where she grew up and relatives still serve.  Edie was passionate towards teaching children about Jesus Christ and training others to do so as well.  

OTCS Program Director Jonathan Park shares his reflection from the service.  "The service was a very holy and graceful service where we could see the full life that she lived for God.  The 45 years of the beautiful union between Dr. Tinder and Mrs. Tinder was a great testimony to us all who were in attendance."

Dr. Donald Tinder expressed gratitude and appreciation towards Olivet for their support.  The university plans to launch a website in memory of Mrs. Tinder.