Donny Testimonials

 

As we all celebrate Donny running into the arms of Jesus, on this page you can leave special memories you have of Donny and how he has touched your life.

You can leave your comments in the comment box below.

Enjoy these letters from Donny. Click Here

Click Here To Watch Donny’s Memorial Service

 

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The Following Are Testimonials about Donny taken from our previous site, please feel free to leave your testimonial below:

tamara buitenwerf says:
March 9, 2010 at 5:30 pm

I very quickly wrote about Donny on my blog before I left town the other night: http://tam4buit.blogspot.com/2010/03/donny.html

The post was written quickly and without much time for a thoughtful post. It was also written for those who know me. I spoke briefly about his influence on my life regarding missions and specifically Africa. I will be going to Ethiopia AFRICA in the next few months to bring home our son that we’re adopting there. I will go to Ethiopia with a smile on my face thinking about the life of my dear friend!

tamara [martinez] buitenwerf

Iris Kirk says:
March 9, 2010 at 5:56 pm

I would like to share this beautiful picture that I have been given when I think of Donny: “Safe in the arms of Jesus”
I see in my spirit the love and tenderness of our Lord holding this sweet brave man close to His bosom, free from all pain and suffering. I look forward to meeting Donny one day in heaven.

“Suffer the little children to come unto me and I will give them rest.” Donny is a very special child of God.

In Him,
Iris Kirk

Nicole – Donny’s Cousin says:
March 9, 2010 at 5:58 pm

I have to share the heart of my 5yr old… Joe has been praying for Donny, every night, with out fail for about 2 years. The last time we got to visit Donny, Joe asked him, “Donny, do you mind if I just pray that you are healed?”… Donny told him to pray his heart out. 😉 So, Joe did just that. I’ve never seen a child with such a burden on his heart as my Joe had for Donny. He’d see something while we were out and say, “I wonder what Donny would think about that.”

The day I got the phone call that Donny had graduated from his pain and this darn earth, Joe heard my break into tears. He asked me, “Why are you sad mama?” My husband and I went to sit with him. I was prepared for the first, “Why didn’t my prayers work mama?”… I said, “Ya know how we’ve been praying for Donny?” He stopped me, his face got real serious and he said, “Mama, did he die?”… I had to say yes. I said, “Ya know how we’ve been praying for him?” He stopped me and said, “It didn’t work mama.” I was able to share with Joe that God heard his prayers and healed Donny 100% and gave him a body so much better than an earthly body that is limited and feels pain. He got it, my precious 5yr old, he got it. He said, “Well Mama, I think our whole family should go there RIGHT NOW!!”… Sweet boy. I said, “Hey, ya know how you ask me things and I tell you we’ll have to wait until we get to heaven to ask God?”… He jumped in real fast with an “OH MAN!!!”… I said, “What?”… He says, “Donny gets to know first, and he can’t even tell me!!!!!” Then, he thought for a minute and said, “Oh man” again… I asked, what?”… He says, “Donny get a mansion first too!” ha ha ha Later that night, he said, “Mama, can we pray that God would save the mansion next to Donny for me?”

He has continued to bless me with his pure heart when I’ve been sad. He says, “Mama, I’m not sad, Donny is in Heaven and that is where he belongs.” So true.

One of my favorite things to remember right now is the pulpit in the livingroom that some people saw as a hospital bed. Donny shot right to the heart with words from the Lord and encouragement for life. His lungs tried to stop him from talking, but he pressed through to impress on our lives the encouragement that the Lord put on his heart for us. I’ll forever be thankful for my cousin and his influence in my life.

Lynn Callison says:
March 9, 2010 at 6:44 pm

Donny came into my life as a prayer request. You see, our son almost died a year ago January and we had so many wonderful people praying for him. And so it was natural that a friend who prayed for both of our boys asked me to pray for him.

I have cried with you all, rejoiced with you all and experienced Donny’s mature faith. I have been blessed by this privilege.

We are so very blessed to be members of this family of God. Strangers here on earth, but tied together by the great Creator to uplift one another at times such as these.

I am praying for you as you celebrate the amazing life of this young man. God will find a way – when there seems to be no way to get through the coming weeks. May you all fully savor every precious memory and allow the love of God to heal your broken hearts.

Nancy Andersen says:
March 9, 2010 at 6:55 pm

I never got to meet Donny, but I felt I knew him, I read everyone of his updates as they were posted, going nearly every day to see how he was doing and praying for him. I found as I read his daily progress, I didn’t think of my own pain, it was nothing compared to this young mans suffering. I would thank God every time I read an update for this young mans courage. I am running this race up on both feet because I didn’t give up and sit down, Donny was my mentor on how to push through, thank you Donny, I will always remember you. Someday we will meet face to face in the Kigdom of our Lord, untill then my friend, love, Sister Joy.

Carol Totlis says:
March 9, 2010 at 6:59 pm

I remember the very first time that I met Donny. He drove his mama up to Fremont when Sandi was doing the Saturday evening Revival services. I also had my oldest son Matthew with me. I remember observing Donny and how he doted over his mama. I notice this because of how my oldest son dotes over me and calls me his hero. This realy touched my heart. I knew from that very moment that when Donny got married he would treat his wife like a QUEEN. Son’s tend to treat their wives a special as they treat their mothers. I also remember Sandi saying how Donny is the one who drove her up there. My son Matthew also drove us from Sacramento to the meeting. This may seems trivial to some, but it’s gesteres like this that so bless a mother from her son.
Now for how Donny has blessed me and drawn me closer to the heart of Papa. When Donny was diagnosed with leukemia, I was also dealing with fibromyalgia, degenerative disc damage and arthritis in my neck and back from a car accident. For those who are unfamiliar with my diagnosis, all three can be very painful all by themselve, but to have all three at the same time is almost umbearable at times. I battled with depression on so many levels as I struggled to walk with my countenance lifted up.
When I became one of many who was blessed enough to take this journey with Donny and the Querin family. It changed me in ways that only the Lord can touch the backside of your heart. I remember saying, if this young man who continues to fight the good fight, all to bridge the gap between the lost and heart and Jesus and bring us closer to the Lord, then Lord how can you and I turn my life over to glorify you in the midst of this journey.
My testimony goes to show that God is everywhere all the time. The Lord healed me of depression, unworthiness and filled me with compassion for others, and increased my faith in the Lord for the things unseen that can only come thru the power of the Holy Spirit.Thru Donny I learned how to walk in joy and praise the Lord in all things. I have learned to walk in healing in every area of my life as a result of this AWESOME man of God. And as a result, the Lord has used me profoundly to enourage and pray for complete strangers who approach me on the street and start revealing their hurts and pain. I am humbled by this and always seize the opportunity to share the LOVE of JESUS and as a reult have brought some to our wonderful Lord. This is all a result of this AWESOME man of God ( Donny)
I am sure that we will hear the wonderful exploits of God thru Donny for years to come.
I know that Donny heard those precious words as he became a citizen of heaven. Good job well and faithful servant.
To the Querin family, thank you for sharing Donny with all of us and thank you for raising Donny to be such a wonderful ambassador for the kingdom of heaven.
He will be greatly missed by so many, but we all know that Donny is now dancing with the Lord…Lets take this time to celebrate this AWESOME man of God’s life.
May the Lord bless and comfort the entire Querin family thru this time and bring you joy unspeakable…Love to you all

Resting in the arms of Jesus,

Carol Totlis
Sacramento, CA

Andrea Yarbor says:
March 9, 2010 at 9:37 pm

Sandy, my heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you and your family. sincerely, Andrea

Leslie Carter says:
March 9, 2010 at 11:06 pm

The first time I laid eyes on him–Donny was making our two white mocha’s. I was so upset with how nasty we felt they tasted that I grabbed my video camera, and talked of the horribleness inside my cup and the man that made it. The video had been taken off the web soon after it had been put on due to harassing comments. The next time I saw him I apologized. I never knew him. Later he convinced me to apply and I was hired. I was shown the Lords forgiveness through him.

During one shift at Starbucks Donny randomly asked me “Why do you clench your jaw”? It took me by surprise. I wasn’t aware of it. And I realized I couldn’t look him in the eyes with out going pink. Awkward, but enlightening. Donny always showed me the Lords strength, and he did it well. A Lord loving husband and thoughtful boss.

‘Savage’ will never be the same.

I was working the floor by the drive through window. Donny came towards the area and I asked him “Do you think that robots will replace humans at Starbucks in the future”? He humored me with a reply to which I then asked “Do you think they will have less defects”? Turning to me with a blank yet funny smirk he repeated “less defects” like a robot. It showed me another side of him and he laughed with me.

The time was short, but the impact was for life.

Cheryl Drake says:
March 10, 2010 at 12:44 am

I never had the privilege of meeting Donny on the earth, but I had the awesome privilege of being connected to him by the Spirit. It’s an amazing thing when the Holy Spirit gives you an assignment to intercede for someone you do not know. There were many nights I would awaken with Donny on my heart. I have wept over him, rejoiced over his victories, and cheered him on from distant miles. My heart is full, as I imagine Donny in Heaven free from the prison of a worn out earthly body.
I am reminded of some wonderful words from a Dottie Rambo song:
“This house of clay is but a prison
Bars of bone hold my soul
But the doors of clay are gonna burst wide open
When the angels set my spirit free
I’ll take my flight like the mighty eagle
When the hills of home start calling me”

What an amazing young man Donny is. Strong and mighty and greatly loved by the Father. His legacy will live on and speak of faith, determination, courage, bravery, and love, focusing on the prize of his high calling in Jesus.

Donny was highly favored and blessed to have such an amazing wife, mother, father, and sister. I have prayed for all of you many, many times, and will continue to do so. The Holy Spirit is definitely true to His name of “Comforter.” His peace and comfort is all around you and is tangible!

Sandi, thank you for sharing your very personal time of trial through this journey. I know for me, it had a great impact on my life. I feel so privileged to have been one of many who shared in the great commission to intercede for your son. Thank you Jesus……

Trista Yerkich-Blair says:
March 10, 2010 at 3:41 am

Donny and I met 11 years ago as undergrad interns at Teen Mania Ministries. During our second year a group of us formed friendships that are still the best of our lives. In our third year we all moved to the “Quads” on campus and Donny and “our boys” lived next door.

Several of us drove to Colorado to go sking in 2003. I was Donny’s ‘keep awake” and as he drove (way to fast I might add) in the middle of the night on the TX freeway, he told me “I can tell you each car coming in the opposite direction just from their headlights”. I wasn’t buying it…and I was wrong! He knew his cars…

5 years after we stepped on TMM Campus, most us moved away. Several of us were able to come together again for a time at Syndi and Dalen’s wedding in 2004. It was the last time I saw Donny.

I can still hear him calling me….”YERKICH!”.

B says:
March 10, 2010 at 5:15 am

Mighty warrior, faithful friend of God. Never have I learned so much from someone else’s pain. He taught us volumes without saying a word. So many of us were encouraged to fight beyond what we had ever done before, provoked to pray through the nights, and inspired to persevere. So many moved in unity to war together, shed tears together, and rejoice together through his journey. Awestruck at the love and courage in his heart as he held on to his dearest friend with a depth of trust and understanding that is rarely seen; an understanding that Jesus was with him through it all, and that was enough. People who never had the privilege of meeting Donny were compelled to pray for him as if he was their own son, their own brother, a dear friend. The Lord especially used the past three and a half years of Donny’s journey on this earth to teach us all so much. As we watched and prayed, we were given the gift of learning to truly look past our own lives, our own pain and circumstances and pray for others, just as he did so many times…. What a beautiful reflection of Christ he has been. As our hearts wrestle to reconcile with the reality of our loss of such an amazing young man, this we know, we were blessed by his life. A life that taught so many, and will for years to come.
Our love to you Querin family. What a tremendous example of love, sacrifice, and strength you have all been.

Beth Cliff says:
March 10, 2010 at 5:50 am

I did not have the honor of “knowing” Donny, we met just once. However, many of us at the Revival Center feel we “knew” Donny as one of our own. His parents would tell us of his exploits from his “ship” in the livingroom of their home. We kept up with him in photos and updates from the website. While most never met him, he was part of us and forever will be part of us. He is family. We prayed for him as though he was the closest of kin. We cried for him as though he was our natural brother. Though we never really knew him in person, we mourn the day he left us and the fact we never met here on earth. We rejoice knowing that we will be with him in heaven. The day we run into the arms of Jesus, we know he will be there rooting us on and showing us the ropes!

Thank you Donny, for showing us what it truly means to be a Monument of God! Your courage is truly inspiring! Your testimony will live on forever in the hearts of the people that considered you family, “Our Brother”.

B says:
March 10, 2010 at 1:42 pm

Though his life on this earth is done, he has left a legacy that will continue on in all our hearts and memories. A true hero of the faith. I know it didn’t come easy…to Sandi and Martin, you’ve done good my friends. You raised him well and taught him to lean on the Lord.

Teresa Ward says:
March 10, 2010 at 6:35 pm

I just wanted to send all my love to your family…I felt like I knew Donny….what a brave man he is…..Im so happy hes out of all his pain…I have been praying for him alot and the family and when I found out Donny left us I was upset thinking why God…why…You said you were going to heal him…God told me..My child I did heal him ,Donnys with me….No more pain He is healed from head to toe just as you prayed…Then I thanked our God for takeing such a wonderful God feeled man home.Sandi and Martin Amy cynthia omar may you have peace and comfort of God.I lost my only child in 1994 …..Trisha was 18 years old and I thank God for the 18 years He blessed me as being her mother….God is my everything Hes the onlyone that is getting me though this and He gives me comfort knowing shes with Him.I miss my Trisha everyday but knowing shes with the Lord gets me by…I thank God for sending me to the church and meeting such wonderful people…..I thank God for you Sandi and your family.I have. learned alot. God is so good.Donny will always be loved and remembered by us all…..Love and God Bless Teresa Ward

tricia penner says:
March 10, 2010 at 6:37 pm

I knew Donny only from his work at our kingsburg starbucks. i only recently learned that your family lives just a few houses down the street from us. i knew of his illness and would frequently ask people who knew him for updates ~ as our family prayed for healing for this special boy.

every conversation i had with donny was a wonderful experience. but there was a special moment i would like to share with your family.

my oldest daughter, jordyn, suffers from epilepsy and a few years ago jordyn was having an especially difficult time with seizures. i took her to starbucks for a treat and some time together. when donny gave us our drinks he asked how we were (in his very genuine donny way) and i introduced him to my daughter, jordyn and said simply that she was having a rough day and explained briefly about the recent seizures and her struggle. he responded by looking straight into jordyn’s eyes and they began to have a conversation about the blessings in thier lives. he told her how she was so blessed to have a more mature perspective of what life on earth means in comparison to her peers. he told her how wonderful it was that God has given her this gift of seeing beyond what others see. their convesation went on for a few minutes and i remember knowing in that moment ~ as i sat back and listened ~ that God was speaking through donny to my daughter. jordyn and i will never forget donnys words that day and the peace that it gave jordyn during such a difficult time.

What a gift it was to know him.

Lisa Cipolla says:
March 10, 2010 at 9:08 pm

I wrote my feelings about Donny on my blog: here is the link, text is below.

http://thecipollafamily.blogspot.com/2010/03/true-hero.html

Saturday, March 6, 2010
A True Hero

Our world has lost a true hero; a real man of God who was an amazing person and a true inspiration to many. Donny Querin passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2010 after a 3 year battle with leukemia. His story hit so close to home for me, because of Andrew’s history. He fought long and he fought hard, never complaining or questioning why God was allowing him to suffer so much. Actually, it was quite the contrary. He struggled every day simply to breathe, suffering tremendous pain, but he faced the pain head on. It brought him closer to God, he said. His faith was exemplary and his family is amazing. His parents were by his side every step of the way with unwavering faith. His sister was there to donate her bone marrow in an effort to save his life. His beautiful wife Amy was there from the beginning. She was there 3 months before their wedding day, when Donny was diagnosed. She was ready and willing to commit her life to him, even as he received chemotherapy just hours before they walked down the aisle to become husband and wife. She was his best friend, his companion, his caretaker and she loved him with all her heart. Amy Querin is truly an amazing woman – an inspiration herself.

Three years I’ve been praying for Donny. Almost daily, I’d log on and check his mom’s blog http://www.abbasheart.com/donnyupdate4.asp The day that Donny went to be with the Lord – almost to the minute, I was on my knees, praying that God would give Donny mercy, the God would ease his suffering and take away his pain. And true to His word, God saved Donny. He didn’t allow Donny to continue suffering. He took Donny home to be with him, at peace, for eternity.

As a parent, I cannot even begin to fathom what the last 3 years must’ve been like for the Querin family and what they must be feeling now that Donny has gone to heaven. I cannot imagine the strength that not only Donny had, but that his family had as they had to watch helplessly as their son/husband/brother/uncle suffered at the hands of a terrible illness. My heart broke over and over for them as I’d read the blog – 1 step forward, 2 steps back seemed to be the progression.

The last entry, titled “The last Donny update” broke my heart into a million pieces. I cried heavy tears with sobs emerging from my throat. I cried as a mother, unable to imagine losing my own son. I cried as I remembered his friendship with my own brother and how they used to do “burn outs” in my parents’ driveway in their trucks. I cried as a human being, not able to fully understand God’s will.

Now, my prayers for Donny will be re-directed as prayers for his family. Prayers for peace for parents who had to watch their only son suffer for 3 long years and then ultimately losing their child. Prayers for his sister Cynthia, just 11 months younger who valiantly donated her bone marrow in an attempt to save her brother’s life and who was his best friend. Prayers for Amy, not even 30 years old and now a widow who has lost her soul mate.

I so wish that I could make it home for the memorial service next week. I want to tell his mom and wife so many things. I want to see my own mom and dad and give them hugs. But given the fact that I can’t be physically be there, at least I will be there in spirit. And though Donny is gone, I will continue to keep his family in my prayers.

Donny Querin: March 13, 1981 – March 4, 2010 – 28 years young. You will never know how many people you inspired and how many lives you touched. Mine was one of them. Thank you so much for sharing your struggle with us while you fought for your life. May you rest in peace with the angels and know that we look forward to seeing you again someday when we join you in heaven. Your testament of faith is astounding and I imagine that when you met God face to face, He hugged you and said, “Well done good and faithful servant. I am proud of you My son.”

Tammyjo says:
March 10, 2010 at 11:07 pm

I never got to meet Donny but I am blessed in knowing him if only by one degree of separation. I learned to hold on to a promise by watching him hold on; and, now I learn to lay down what it looks like by his example. In all these things I praise God who makes such men; who, LIVE for Christ right smack dab in the middle of “no matter what”. I praise God that Donny has received his promise and am encouraged that not one letter of God’s word ever falls to the ground unfulfilled.

I will continue to pray that the Lord will comfort you in this time.
Respectfully and In His Love~ tj

John, Tammie, Cameron and Candice Isaacs says:
March 11, 2010 at 5:44 am

Martin, Sandi, Cynthia and Amy,

Peace and blessings upon all of you and your families. We pray that the love of God enfolds you during your difficult times and that he helps you heal with the passage of time. We would like to share the following poem with you all at this time.

If You Could See Me Now

If you could see me now you wouldn’t shed a tear.
Though you may not understand why I’m no longer there.
Remember my spirit that is the real me because I’m still very
Much alive, I’ve just been set free, Oh, if you could only see!
I have beheld our Father’s face and I’ve touched my Savior’s
Hand. All of Heaven’s angels rejoiced as I entered the promised
Land. Beyond the gates of pearl I’ve walked on the golden streets.
I’ve touched the walls of jasper and dipped my foot in the
Crystal sea. The beauty is beyond words and nothing could
Compare, I’ve even seen your mansion and someday
I’ll meet you there. Let Jesus be your guide because
His Word will show you the way! So please don’t
Cry because we will meet again someday.

-By Patsy Stambaugh Deskins

Unfortunately, we will not be able to make it to Donny’s celebration of life. May God watch over your family during your time of need. With our sincere sympathy,

The Isaacs’s Family
steve-o says:
March 11, 2010 at 6:11 am

Brooooooossseepphhh!!!!!!!!

Thank Donny for making “broseph” go viral by the way…

When Donny was hired at Starbucks we thought it’d be a great idea to give him authority over everyone in the task of making sure we passed our audits for cleanliness and code. Let’s just say giving a barista authority over the shift supervisors wasn’t a well-planned idea. I was pretty passive; I’d tell people “Take it up with Donny, I’m out of this…”
It didn’t take long for people to start complaining. They were complaining about being corrected. “…But he who hates instruction is stupid.” haha! (Proverbs 12:1)
It was just a matter of time until he won over the staff with his gifts: a silver tongue and a will to conquer anything he put his mind to.

Donny taught me everything I know about effective communication, nurturing relationships, vulnerability, conquering goals and fears, and what it means to be a Christian. For that last one, I am forever indebted to him.

Miss you, bro! I’ll see you in the blink of an eye. Your wisdom resonates in my ears.

“Close the ice-bin lid!!”

Sharon LoForti says:
March 12, 2010 at 2:07 am

I didn’t know Donny except I was privileged to get the updates and honored to pray for such a faithful soldier. He has probably already met my husband, Joe, who went to be with Jesus on Nov. 4, 2009. May God bless you all and give you the peace and comfort he has given me through this valley. I will pray that the spirit of grief will have no place in your lives. I know the Lord will give you strength and meet your every need. Our God is an awesome God.

Misty Sweeney says:
March 12, 2010 at 8:43 pm

I first met Donny in 5th grade. Oh how quickly he earned the attention of all of the girls in school. I can remember, almost like it was yesterday, everyone in the school following him around the playground on his first day. Poor kid, he must have been terrified! We became fast friends and remained so throughout our childhood and into high school. The truly awesome thing about Donny is that he loves the Lord and he wasn’t ashamed of it. When other kids were off “exploring their options” in the world, Donny already knew what he was about. He loved the Lord and practiced his love by loving others. I walked with him in the Dias’ wedding and as we had the bridal party slow dance Donny took that opportunity to find out how my relationship with Jesus was going. It’s funny because we hadn’t seen each other in a few years and still he wasn’t afraid to speak the truth. That is so important and very rare to find in a friend. I am so glad that the face of Jesus is shining upon him at this very moment. Until we meet again my friend…

Carol Totlis says:
March 12, 2010 at 11:37 pm

I know I have shared personally, but I thought this was worth sharing with everyone. I shared the news of Donny being called home by Jesus with my 14 year old son Greg last friday. With tears in his eyes, Greg said to me, I guess Jesus didn’t hear my prayers for Donny. I put my arms around my son, who became such a prayer warrior daily on behalf of Donny and the Querin family and softly spoke to him and said,”Jesus heard your prayers every single day”, and if you humbly ask the Lord he may show you there signifigance.

This past tuesday, Greg came home from school so excited. I ask him what he is so excited about and he shared with me. Mom, I prayed diligently for Donny with all of my heart for a very long time. The Lord showed me that he heard every prayer of mine and then said to me, look my child, I used this AWESOME man of God the way hedesired me to and because you were obedient to this burden to pray for this young man. You and I have developed such an intimate relationship. This is my heart and this was Donny’s heart, the Lord told him. We are both rejoicing…

I had to take a breath, tears were just streaming down my eyes with joy by this young man’s heart to pray. “Out of the mouth of babes”…

I hope this testimony has blessed all of you as it has me toward my own son…And God’s abiding love to each and everyone one of us..

Resting in the arms of Jesus,

Carol

Martin and Sandi Querin says:
March 13, 2010 at 1:30 am

Some have asked, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Clearly put, it’s because good people know how to glorify God in the middle of the bad and thereby make it good. This was a lesson of life that our Donny lived out. May you not waste his pain, may you forever march as he did….. glorifying God and endeavoring to do so, every step of the way! Jesus sent mercy just in time and it came running to collect him. We are blessed to of been his parents. Very blessed and grateful and as Donny would say, “Indeed!” So, true my son, so true.
Each and every blessing outpoured to you today as the Lord heals your hearts and ignites your souls. Martin and Sandi Querin

Lucy Fincher aka Lucita says:
March 13, 2010 at 4:40 pm

The Querin family came into my life when I was 12 years old. They moved in next door to my family in Sonoma. Donny was almost 18 months old and Cynthia was about 6 months old when I first started helping Sandi as a mommy’s helper and then graduated on to become Donny and Cynthia’s full-fledged babysitter.

Well, as the official Querin family babysitter, let’s just say that Donny made sure I earned my keep. Bedtimes were especially fun. I would read a book to the kids and then tuck them in for the night. Cynthia was off in dreamland within minutes, but Donny was a little more of a challenge. We would go through the whole gamut of children’s ailments that only occur at bedtime – “my tummy hurts”, “my tooth hurts” and other needs and requests – “I’m thirsty” “just one more story”. It was our routine. He just never wanted to miss a thing.

Donny died way too young, yet I am in awe of how many lives he touched along the way with his strength and unwavering devotion to his faith. Even as a child, Donny taught me a life lesson that I have carried with me. I remember one day Sandi pulling me aside and talking to me, in that loving way that she does, about how Donny had told her that he didn’t like it when I would sometimes raise my voice when I was babysitting. I remember feeling terrible about it, but I didn’t know any different — I was still a bit of a child myself at that time. Donny and his family taught me different. I learned, through Donny, that children have a voice and that the rest of us need to lower our voices … and listen.

The Querin family has been a true blessing to me. They took me under their wing and loved me – unconditionally. Their example, guidance, and influence in my life made me who I am today — a better friend, daughter, sister, wife, and mother. This family will always hold a special place in my heart, though my heart is heavy as I say good bye to Donny for the last time.

OL-Ladies – Lemoore Sisters says:
March 15, 2010 at 6:32 pm

We all loved Donny from the moment we met him in our Bachelor’s program at Fresno Pacific. Very quickly we recognized his special talents – the rolling eyes, the finger pointed up that wagged like a windshield wiper, the quirky humor, and the eyes that reached right into your funny bone – or your “irritation” bone.

We faithfully remembered Donny (and the family) in our “Donny @ Noon” prayer time where all of us would take a moment at noon each day to pray for him. We’d check in with each other and talk about the updates on AH.

One of the ladies in our OL-11 class recalled: my favorite memory of Donny was the night in our Values class where we all shared about our families. There was no order to the night, we all just got to get up and go when we felt like it. Donny waited until the very end. And he didn’t share about himself, he just sat and played his guitar and commented on all of our stories. I don’t remember exactly what he said, but it was almost as if he had known it would go that way. His words tied the whole night together like a perfect masterpiece. He was so deeply intuitive and thought-FULL. What a brilliant Christian mind! He will be missed.

What a blessing to have known this wonderfully, challenging, kind, deep, and amazing man. Today we feel sad for our friend’s humanity but we rejoice in his spiritual-man and the reward he is surely enjoying.

One day we will see him again and on that day we bet he is still rolling his eyes, pointing his windshield-wiper finger, and touching/irriating our funny bone – but he will be doing it with his glorified body and spirit. “Oh, What a Day That Will Be!

Patty says:
March 16, 2010 at 4:39 am

I met Donny at Fresno Pacific University 13 months prior to his diagnosis. Over the next 13 months our FPU cohort took an unforgettable journey that was filled with emotion, enlightenment, prayer, tears, and at times anger, division, and remorse. With just 2 weeks to finish his degree, at the end of our 13 month journey, Donny fell ill. I will never forget visiting him at the hospital and Sandy telling us how Donny had coded. She spoke softly, and was matter of fact about what Donny had just experienced. She told us how she knew the Lord returned him because Donny had work to do.

Boy was she right. For the last 3 years I have found myself in awe of Donny. I never imagined that the leadership skills I seeked to learn from FPU, I would actually learn from Donny. He taught me about servant leadership (Greenleaf has nothing on Donny’s teaching ability), loyalty, bravery, and courage.

Although the last time I saw Donny was in a hospital bed 3 years ago, I have always carried him in my heart. My memories of Donny are not of a feeble man, they are of that strong young man who loved Amy so much he brought her to our class to show her off. Memories of the many prayers we shared during class testimony, the beautiful song he played for us, and if I’m being frank, memories of the way he carried himself. He knew himself. He knew what he wanted.

I think the Lord used Sandy as Donny vessel to write about his journey, whom better than his mom. Reading Sandy’s journal over the years has brought many tears and many prayers, but most importantly it has given me the opportunity to learn from a true disciple of the Lord.

Tim Stucky says:
March 19, 2010 at 8:31 pm

Many of my memories from my jr and sr years of high school were with Donny.. Flying the old Suburban off our favorite jump out past the river (not sure if it even had seatbelts??), then running it in ‘diesel mode’ down main street just to see the look on people’s faces. While I’m on the subject of the ‘burb, Donny and I had to push that thing through the McDonalds drive thru at least twice! Nothing like two 17 yr olds trying to be cool having to push their ride through the drivethru after it dies. Good stuff…. Maybe the time we dropped a nut down the intake of the 396 and didn’t realize it until it was almost too late or cranking it over while Donny peered down the carb only to have 3 ft flames take half his eyebrows off?

Burning out in anything with an engine and rubber tires, sorry Martin and Sandi, Donny could do great burnouts in the Rodeo!! (Boys will be boys) I don’t get back to Kingsburg very often but I wouldn’t be surprised if there are still rubber marks in front of your house. At one point, it looked like a dragstrip there was so much rubber laid down! All the marks we left in front of your house and my parents house seemed like a great idea at the time. So did heating up part of the coil springs on Donny’s truck to lower it. It didn’t matter that it rode terrible when we were done, it was still cool. To this day, my wife can verify that I still use the following Donnyisms: “Handle it” and “champion style”.. Those will never get old. I know many people locally who have been praying for Donny and the family for the past few years. I can’t believe how many people have thanked me for sharing Donny’s story with them and the impact it’s had on people has been amazing. Looking forward to seeing him again someday..

Sandi Querin says:
March 24, 2010 at 2:36 am

Tim ——— I was a bit weepy today, and your note made me laugh. Yes, our Donny was everyone’s “Donny” and he left a mark…….. longer lasting than the burnouts!! Thanks so much for sharing. We received a beautiful letter from your Sister, Lisa just yesterday. Yeah, that Rodeo held some pretty powerful secrets! We shall see him, with joy, “on the other side” and we dwell here thanking God for the wonderful time with had with “The Don…… The Champion.” And yes, as he would say….. We are handling it. Only through Christ! Thanks again Tim. Sandi Querin

Cheryl Fowler says:
March 25, 2010 at 3:39 am

How Will I Be Remembered?
by John Fowler (1953-2009)

Many seek eternity
In things they do and say
They hope to be remembered
For what they do today

But they never stop to think
What fate may hold in store
How fickle it can be
And leaves you wanting more

But rather than the books of men
I want my name to be
Written in the book of Life
For all eternity

And all that I have done or said
of another be the story
Of how Jesus took a simple lad
And walked with him to glory.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you,
Cheryl Fowler and family

Todd C. says:
April 10, 2010 at 7:48 pm

The first person to touch my heart and show me the true meaning of friendship. Boyhood friends with big dreams, separated by two different paths to walk. We found eachother again, later in life, only to find that we still felt that same connection we shared as children. Like no time had passed at all. Only this time the big dreams were bigger. Husbands and Wives with children running and playing in the front yards of our side by side homes, in Sonoma of course. Complete with white pickett fences. He always emphasized the fences.

I was invited to the wedding. I went alone, knowing I wouldn’t know very many in attendance. It was ok. I was filled with that feeling of friendship he had instilled years ago. I didn’t need to know anyone else.
I made new and wonderful friends, felt the same warmth and welcome that Martin and Sandy made me feel two decades earlier, and met a best friend face to face, all over again.
I met the most beautiful bride to be. And amidst all she had on her plate, (it was a BIG plate!), was still able to make time to make a stranger in the house feel welcome and like I was a part of this wedding from the beginning.
I remember the passion and the love we all saw in Donny and Amy during the ceremony. The tears, the smiles, the connection.
What a journey he made to get home.
I am so thankful to have been a part of this great man and his journey. Even if a small part. Because he had a way of making even the smallest things seem larger than life itself.

We are taught not to be proud, but what a shame it would be to not feel pride when you think of him. I am proud to have known him. One of our Lords finest, I am sure of that.

Martin, Sandy, Amy, Cynthia…
Thank you for welcoming me into your home and letting me know your Donny. I miss him.

Sandi Querin says:
April 18, 2010 at 12:20 am

Dear Todd – Yes, the world seemed safer, gentler, more honest when Donny was here. But, the Lord prevails and we are confident that Donny is training angels to instill those same qualities in anyone down here who will listen.
It was a pleasure to see you again and you need to know that it was Donny’s great pleasure to reconnect. He chose close friends carefully and molded whom he could to look like Christ. He pursued you as a friend. So, close, so young……… and it would seem forever. You and your family are ALWAYS

Sandi Querin says:
April 18, 2010 at 12:21 am

welcome in our home. You just give a call or drop a note and it will happen. We pray for you.
559-897-9575 P.O. Box 734, Kingsburg, Ca 93631
Please stay in touch. You are loved. Sandi

The DeLaRosa Family says:
April 27, 2010 at 7:16 pm

Our hearts are greaving for all of you , the dear Lord’s best interpreters are humble human souls; the gospel life of your beloved Donnie has been a testimony to all of us , he interpreted how much God loves us he will always be remembered with a joyful heart. When Donnie rode my school bus when he was much younger I new then he had something special going on inside his precious heart , he was always making me smile. Please know we are praying for your wounded hearts, I promice you that God will heal your hearts, he will bring joy into your lives abundantly. Isaiah 40:32 Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength, they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. We love you all so very much, sincerely The DeLaRosa Family

Pam Van Meter says:
April 27, 2010 at 7:17 pm

Sweet Amy. and Querin Family
You are in my thoughts and prayers. You have all fought the good fight and have been an inspiration. What a testimony for us all.
Blessings

Pam Van Meter

Luanne Henderson says:
May 10, 2010 at 2:40 am

Dear Sandy,
I have not had the pleasure of meeting your son, but I did meet you a couple of years ago through Hope Beard. I was so blessed by your love for the Lord – and truly walked away with that blessing to follow many days. Fast forward to now – I am a missionary working with inner city kids and african refugee kids in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Last week, i was praying and crying – I know the Lord is leading me to South Africa – there are a lot of transitions in my life right now, and the SA trip is in July – it’s just short term – but there are a lot of “unknowns” about SA, a pastor friend, and my life in general. All I can hear is “South Africa” so that is my focus. But while I was praying, the Lord reminded me of you, Sandi, your ministry and I thought I would look you up -but alas, my memory failed and I forgot…but God…
Then today, Mom’s day, I am empty and feel like I have nothing left to give. Then Hope texted me – I asked her what your website was and here I am, not knowing what has been taking place in all your lives. I’m Praying for you, Martin, Amy and Donny’s sis. You all have my heart and prayers for you this day – and in the future. I listened to one of your sermons, watched Donny’s video and have been praying and crying ever since. My the joy of the Lord be your strength, day by day. May our Lord Jesus Christ give you a glimmer of His glory, each day.

I don’t know if this is appropriate, but Happy Mother’s Day. Surely the Lord has blessed you. Surely He has. You, your family and your honest testimonies have ministered to me this day – and I thank you for it.

I still have a lot of unknowns, but I know God has the plan all mapped out, I just need the courage to follow. Which I will, (which sometimes I just want a glimmer of the plan!). But you all hold a dear place in my heart and I will continue to lift you all up in prayer.
May the Lord Bless you and keep you, may His Face shine upon you…forever. Amen & Amen.
Blessings, Love & Prayers

Luanne Henderson
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Sandi Querin says:
May 21, 2010 at 8:11 am

I remember you Louanne. Sitting there on the right………….. ! I appreciate the note, get a hold of me anytime at sandi@abbasheart.com I am blessed to have been Donny’s Mother, thank you for remembering his wonderful life! The Lord gave me a sweet daughter in his wife, Amy, to join my other daughter, Cynthia and her husband. I will be praying for you as you go forward into South Africa. We have a team heading over there in June as well. Much to do there. Call anytime. A constant joy and pleasure to pray for you.

Crystal Sherman says:
December 31, 2011 at 2:53 am

I’m am sorry to hear about Donny. I just found out. I too have just lost a loved one. My dear precious Daddy went to be with the Lord October 15, 2011. Sandi I hope my Daddy and Donny met up with each other. They are both two wonderful guys that would make the best of friends. I love you Sandi and will keep you and your family in my prayers. Crystal Sherman.

Todd C. says:
August 24, 2012 at 4:09 am

I thought of Donny tonight. Not an unfamiliar thought though. He is in my mind often. What a superb individual he was. Sandi, I hope you and the family are well. It is so strange how much I wind up thinking about him. I still feel the same special bond, only now to a memory. It’s a bitter sweet smile I wear tonight.