In Memoriam: Dr. David Stoop
In Memoriam: Dr. David Stoop
Categories: AACC BLOG
In Memoriam: Dr. David Stoop
With heavy hearts, we share the news that American Association of Christian Counselor’s Executive Board member, noted psychologist, and author, Dr. David Stoop, passed away on Wednesday, March 10th. Dr. Stoop was an amazingly reasoned voice for truth and righteousness in Christian mental health care and friend to all. He joined the AACC Executive Board at its inception and faithfully served the AACC leadership, staff, and members well. Several fellow board members shared initial warm reflections:
Dr. Ron Hawkins commented on the last time he saw Dr. Stoop:
“He had traveled cross country to attend one of our AACC board meetings. He was battling Parkinsons, and you could see the loss he was dealing with as a part of his new normal. Yet in spite of everything, there he stood. His bravery, commitment to us, his comrades in ministry, and faithfulness to fulfilling his felt obligations stirred feelings of admiration and appreciation in me for him, for his life and his legacy.”
Dr. Gary Oliver shared his admiration for Dr. Stoop:
“Real, genuine, authentic, responsibly transparent and faithful Christ-follower, a friend for all season, a lifetime learner, faithful husband, father, friend. A beloved brother who took his Abba very seriously but never took himself too seriously. One of my favorite memories in our 40 years of friendship was being in the Tetons together and watching the golden sunrise on the classic alpine peaks that are the Cathedral Group…speaking some, praying a bit, but mostly enjoying the beauty of our Lord’s majestic creation in silence.”
Dr. Sharon May shared her fond memories of Dr. Stoop:
“My first encounter with Dave 20 years ago was his interest in my research on attachment. Even though I was a young therapist, he respected my work. He even asked me to write a chapter in his book on marriage and attachment. I came to realize that this was who Dave was, honoring to others, always interested in learning from someone else, confident and yet humble enough to collaborate with his peers. This kind, godly man was wise and matured by life. Be at peace Dave, you lived well, loved well and impacted many lives for good. I am a better person because of you. You will be remembered.”
Please keep his wife Jan, and the family in your prayers. He will be sorely missed by many. Dr. Tim Clinton, President of the AACC, shared, “One of God’s choice servants, Dave was a rock, so supportive and always the same. He was fun, loved the Lord, his family, and serving others. He loved the Christian Counseling movement, and his legacy of wise counsel and amazing wisdom and guidance to the AACC will continue strong. The Executive Board will not be the same, but we are comforted to know he is with our Lord. Well done, Dave…well done. We will miss you, friend.”