She has attended and served faithfully here ever since. Some of you “old-timers” will remember Jay (and Mildred) Swett, Fay’s twin brother, who were attending Go-Getters during that early time. They had three girls, Louise, Margaret and Wanda in Sunday school.
Those who have been at First Christian for several decades will remember that we had a children’s ministry called Jet Cadets. Similar to Awana, the children earned ranks by memorizing scripture and other challenging activities. (An interesting side note is that Debbie Crane/Wallace was our very first Admiral in the Jet Cadet program). My children as well as several others, I suspect, will remember Mrs. Bockhahn as the woman who was always waiting in the side room to listen to the children and record their achievements.
Fay’s boys were active in Sunday school and youth activities through their growing up years. I remember a time when the middle boy, Keith, had a rare disease called Legg Perthes, a childhood hip disorder, and had to stay off his legs/feet for two years. Fay, who is small in stature, would carry that 4 – 5 year old boy everywhere (bringing him to church faithfully) until his uncle built a scooter, which he used to get around.
Fay worked at Sunsweet Prune Company until the company moved from Napa. Fay also faithfully taught Sunday school and was active in various areas of ministry, including missions. She served as Judy Pickett’s forwarding agent for about ten years. In the community, she volunteered at the local library in a tutoring program helping adults learn to read. She says she thoroughly enjoyed this.
Fred and Fay’s sons, Carl (and Karen), Keith (and Janie) and Roger (and Cheryl) have given their parents nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Fred and Fay have been married 63 years. A highlight of their life was in 2002 when they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with an Alaskan Cruise, accompanied by their adult children.
Fay is in the Joyful Go-Getter’s Class and second service every Sunday and attends the Encouragers’ potluck twice a month. Since she is not able to drive any more, Fred faithfully brings her and then picks her up every Sunday. He has also been attending the potlucks with Fay. A favorite dish is the steamed, sliced carrots Fay always brings on Wednesday potluck day. Fay Bockhahn may be tiny in stature, but she is mighty in her example of faithfulness. Thank you for that, Fay. Your example is admired and appreciated by many. |
