David Leonard Bearden

David "Dave" Leonard Bearden, age 84 of Findlay, passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at his home. Dave was born in Paterson, New Jersey to the late Leonard L. and Gwendolyn L. (Kimble) Bearden.

Dave and his wife Carolyn were married on April 23, 1965 in Wheadon Methodist Church in Evanston, IL. She survives along with his children Elaine A. (Craig) Bearden of Savoy, IL., and Bradley D. (Amy) Bearden of Bellingham, WA.; grandchildren Bruce, Blake, Ava, and Bryan of Bellingham, WA; sisters Joyce G. McGirr of Westwood, NJ and Marie K. Bearden of Syracuse, NY; and nephews and nieces Darren, Rick, Linda, Phil, Sharon, Merideth and Heather.

In 1948 Dave moved from the Paterson area with his family to Trinidad and Barbados, B.W.I. He graduated from St. Mary's College on completion of the Cambridge school certificate examinations, and received further degrees in chemistry, theology and psychological counseling from Blackburn College, Garret-Evangelical Theological Seminary, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. He was a licensed professional counselor and licensed independent marriage and family therapist with the state of Ohio, clinical member of the American Association of Family Therapists, and at the time of his death, clinical fellow with the organization.

A retired clergy member of the United Methodist Church Great Plains Conference, his early career involved appointments to First UMC Kearney-Newark Parish and Campus Ministry, 1965, evolving into a full campus ministry, representing four churches. Dave pioneered ecumenical cooperation; international student outreach; counseling, growth groups and service projects with students. He arranged faculty and student seminars on Christian values; administered summer camps for underprivileged children; and officiate numerous creative weddings for students.

In 1975 he joined Family Services of Hancock County and assisted in the development of the Former Century Health, Inc. His passion to assist clients to resolve their conflicts and fulfill their potential resulted in therapy sessions and community enrichment seminars. He was recognized for his parent education, family month events, police officer training, and served as president of the coordinating council, and was named Professional Counselor of the Year.

Retiring in 2002, Dave joined the visitation team at his home church, St. Andrew's UMC. He also taught adult church school classes, assisted with back yard mission, volunteered with teaching at the City Mission, and consulted with many in distress. He was a longtime member of the Beacon Club.

Dave returned to his West Indian childhood home on his honeymoon with Carolyn while his father still managed the laundry and drycleaning business. Other travels through the years and in his retirement have included: cousin reunions in upper state NY; Carolyn's roots in West Virginia; Dave's family in the east and Florida; Elaine and Craig's experiences in Illinois; Brad, Amy and grandchildren with family for excursions in Washington State and Canada. During his years Dave enjoyed swimming, tennis, college piano recitals, coached soccer, served as a scout master, played water polo and sang in the St. Mary's Boys choir.

Dave's commitments in life have been influenced by Paul's writing in his letter to the Romans, to use the renewing power of one's mind to demonstrate what is good, beautiful and true. He will be remembered for his commitment to family and community, and his calm and caring spirit in the midst of storms.

Visitation will be held from 10:00am-11:00am on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 in the atrium of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, 120 West Sandusky Street, Findlay, Ohio. Followed by Dave’s funeral to begin at 11:00am. Burial will be private.

Memorials can be given to St. Andrew's United Methodist Church, 120 West Sandusky Street, Findlay, Ohio 45840.

Online condolences may be shared with the family via www.kirkpatrickbehnke.com

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