October 25, 1963—March 10, 2021
In this issue, you have the opportunity to read the final article written by John Formosa for the people of God. On Wednesday March 10, 2021, God saw fit to lay another faithful soldier to rest. John Formosa experienced a medical emergency from which he never recovered.
John was born in Toronto Canada to Brenda and Henry Formosa. He was the second youngest of seven children. At the age of 11 he was introduced to the message of the International Missionary Society, Seventh-day Adventist Reform church, when his mother responded to an advertisement that the church had placed in the local newspaper. His mother and grandmother took their stand and were baptized into the church. When John was 18, he decided to follow their example and gave his life to the Lord, through baptism.
For a brief period, John worked as a canvasser for the church in the city of Vancouver. After he and Helen Marttinen got married, he left full-time missionary work and took up his own occupation; however, the work of the Lord was always dear to his heart.
He continued to work as he could on a volunteer basis. John gave Bible studies, went canvassing with the church on occasion, and preached regularly in church. He held many positions at the local and field levels over the years.
The church has been blessed with his executive abilities for which he was gifted by the Lord. He served as the secretary for the Canadian Field for over 15 years, and he was still holding this office. For example: during this time, he successfully facilitated the immigration process of four of our missionary workers to Canada from Colombia and Argentina. He also helped find contractors and gave expert advice with our different local church buildings that needed repair.
John also was the leader of the Multi Media department in Canada and facilitated the on-line weekly church services and Sabbath School Lessons. We pray that someone will step up and take over this very important work.
John was also much loved by the young people. At times he was elected as the youth leader, and other times he took on the role of helping the youth, even without being in the office as the leader. He spent time with them, counselled them, and they will never forget the camping trips he took them on. They will miss him greatly.
John was also generous with his money, when he had money he gave to the church and individuals, wherever help was needed. He gave generously to the Good Samaritan department when there was a need. He sponsored several orphans in Africa. John also funded the building of the primary school in Okok, Kenya. He also funded some local projects, such as building a large shed at the back of the Bloor Street church, repairing the roof, and giving financial assistance to the Woodbridge church.
John was a very social person. When the news of his passing was shared, many people were in shock, and quite a few said “I just spoke with him today (or yesterday)”. He had the interest of the work of God in his heart and reached out regularly to the leaders, workers, and many others on a regular basis, while continuing to work his secular job.
Outside of church, John volunteered on the board of the Friends of High Park Zoo—a free zoo, for all to enjoy in the city. It was in much needed repair and John lobbied with the local government for funding for the repair. The funding was approved the day before his passing, which he was very excited about as he shared the news with Helen. Sadly, he will never see the repairs come to fruition.
John will be greatly missed by family, friends, and church members. We pray that God will raise up soldiers to take his place in the work of God. Jesus is coming soon and we look forward to meeting John again in the resurrection morning. We appreciate your prayers.
(From one of the youth in Canada). Leo Chiatto: “I’m deeply saddened that our dear brother and friend, John Formosa, has passed. You were such a good and supportive friend and had such a positive outlook on life along with good advice. I still find it hard to believe. You will be sorely missed, but have the hope to meet again in His Kingdom.” “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:4.
Letter from the Kenyan Union:
Dear Brothers, Sisters, Relatives and Friends.
It is with profound sadness, that we have learned of the untimely death of our beloved brother, the late John Formosa. As Kenya Union the cruel hand of death has robbed us of a humble man who was friendly, generous, forgiving and gentle in spirit.
We will forever remember the late John for His generous contribution, and subsequent establishment of Okok Bethel Academy School in Kenya which has helped many know Jesus and their life changed. (See photo below)
As a union, we join the entire Canadian field, relatives and friends at this time of Dark clouds. To those who we know face to face, and the rest we wish you a quick recovery as you lay to rest the Hero, the late John Formosa.
May the hope of resurrection be forever our focus In Jesus name, Amen.
Till we Meet again, till we Meet Again, till we Meet Again!!! For and on behalf Of Kenya Union,
Nashon Ouma Ojuok
Secretary General-Kenya Union
