Edward Allen Lofdahl's Obituary
On September 24, 2022, Edward Allen Lofdahl passed away at age 76 as the result of a stroke. He left his failing body and confused mind behind to join his Savior in heaven -- renewed and definitely singing praises. Ed was born on November 20, 1945, to Edner and Elsie (Sward) Lofdahl and grew up on a small farm in Ferndale, Washington, as the sixth of eight children and the youngest of the four boys.
After high school, he left home to attend Multnomah School of the Bible and then earned his bachelor’s degree at Western Washington University. He later returned to Western to finish his education by earning a Master’s Degree in English Rhetoric and Composition. A teaching job opportunity at Tacoma Baptist Schools moved him to Tacoma, Washington. His love for the students was evident as he taught their English, Bible and other high school classes as well as directing them in choir and vocal ensembles for 9 years. He continued his teaching career at Washington Baptist Teacher’s College as an Associate Professor of English and Dean of Students. In 1986, he switched careers and worked in the fire protection industry at Sentry, Wormald and Patriot. At Patriot Fire Protection he ran the shipping and receiving department and later became a lister. He retired after 24 years. He never lost his love for teaching, however. He substitute taught when he could, especially in retirement years. As an elder at Grace Community Church, he taught Sunday School classes and preached an occasional sermon and ventured on mission trips to train pastors in Siberia and lead teens serving in Mexico.
Several students and their families were responsible for introducing him to Janice Morris during his first year of teaching at TBS. Only months later, in August of 1971, Ed and Jan were married. Just after purchasing their home of 49 years in Tacoma, they welcomed Rachel, their firstborn. Mark arrived 2 years later.
Spending time with family, cheering on kids and grandkids at sporting events and immersing himself in their activities brought Ed much delight. He also enjoyed working in his yard and garden, sharing its produce, weaving rugs, and cheering on the Mariners. Most importantly, he loved the Lord. He called I Samuel 12:24 his life verse: “Only fear the Lord, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.” In his mild-mannered way, Ed tried to live his life aligned with this truth.
Ed leaves behind many to continue that legacy. His wife Janice of 51 years, his children Rachel (and David) Arbogast, Mark (and Mandy) Lofdahl, grandchildren Evan Arbogast, Emy Arbogast, Caleb Lofdahl, and Joshua Lofdahl, six of his siblings and numerous extended family.
Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at 11 am at Lake City Community Church, 8810 Lawndale Ave SW, Lakewood WA 98498
To contribute a small part to what brought Ed joy, you may choose to donate to Mark 2 Ministries of Oregon at mark2inc.org (http://www.mark2inc.org/online-giving.html)or to Sound Christian Academy (formerly Tacoma Baptist Schools) at soundchristianacademy.org (https://soundchristianacademy.org/advancement/giving-to-sca/)
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