CONCORDIA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

The story of Butch and Rita Rains weaves a tapestry of faith, service, and the remarkable impact of Concordia Life Plan Community in their lives.

Following years of work in the oil and gas industry, Butch went to work in financial services. During that time he also began a program that resulted in being commissioned as a lay pastor from 1999 until his ordination in 2005. That same year, he became the pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in OKC, one of the founding churches of Concordia.

The Rains’ have witnessed the value Concordia offers, initially in the lives of others and later in their own. Their Concordia experience commenced with a compassionate act when they stepped in to help Sam and Leona Kimmey navigate a challenging health situation, eventually becoming close friends. The Kimmey’s experience showcased the profound care and support Concordia extended to its residents, leaving an indelible mark on Butch and Rita.

On a personal level, the Rains’ have experienced the excellence of Concordia’s skilled nursing unit following hospitalizations. The care they received was nothing short of exceptional, accelerating their healing and recovery.

When adversity struck and their home caught fire, Concordia once again extended a helping hand by offering them a temporary residence, allowing them to focus on rebuilding their lives.

For Butch and Rita, the most cherished aspects of Concordia include the genuine care and support provided by the staff, the sense of belonging and family that fills the void for those without extended family, the familiarity of long-serving staff, and an array of exceptional programs and outings.

Though not quite retired yet, the Rains are certain that when the time comes, Concordia will be the place they choose to call home. Their story epitomizes the essence of community, faith, and the unwavering commitment of Concordia to enrich lives.

In 2007, a new chapter began in the lives of Ruth and John Clark when they found a welcoming home in Concordia. To truly appreciate their story, let’s take a step back in time.

Ruth and John had shared their lives since their marriage in 1951, and their journey had been one of generosity and service to their family, church and community. While raising their children in Missouri, they cherished the tradition of spending summers in Canada, connecting with John’s family —a treasure their children held close to their hearts.

John’s career evolved from an industrial researcher to a distinguished professor. Ruth, on the other hand, found her passion in the art of hospitality, delighting in hosting gatherings for John’s academic peers in their beautifully appointed home. When the time came to make a move, Ruth was thrilled to have an apartment where she could continue her love for entertaining and cooking their favorite dishes in a proper kitchen.

The late 1980s saw John’s retirement, and it marked the beginning of their downsizing journey. Witnessing the unpreparedness of several relatives, they decided to take charge, making choices that would ease the burden on their children. As they explored various communities, the decision to move to Oklahoma City to be closer to their daughter, Elizabeth, seemed most logical. Though Concordia was not open at the time, they were drawn to the floor plans and costs and became early members of the priority club.

While Ruth had a deep Lutheran faith that carried with her from cradle to grave, choosing a Lutheran community was not initially a priority. However, as their health declined, the comfort and support of having access to on-campus services and Bible studies became increasingly important.

Elizabeth, when reflecting on the lessons her parents imparted, remarked, “I knew their faith by watching their life.” Settled into their new home at Concordia, the Clarks embraced the spirit of volunteering. John warmly welcomed each new resident and lent his handy skills while Ruth established a recycling program. Following in her parents’ footsteps of service, Elizabeth and her husband, David, took up the mantle by joining the Concordia Board of Directors. David still serves as the Vice President, upholding the family tradition of dedication to the community they’ve come to love.

The Clark’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, service, and community. Their story underscores the significance of supportive environments like Concordia, where residents can live their lives to the fullest and leave a lasting legacy of love and dedication. By supporting Concordia, you are not only honoring the Clarks but also ensuring that this remarkable community continues to flourish, touching the lives of many more families in the future.