by Eric Tort

For those of us who have attended Valley Christian in Junior High, it is no question to ask if any of us remember our 8th grade history teacher.

Who can ever forget Mr. Lorenz? Mr. Lorenz was the type of teacher that both students and parents loved to learn from, and I’m sure it’s safe to say that he has left a permanent impact on all of us. I remember when I used to look forward to going to class everyday just because of him. He helped us learn by having the class perform short skits every Friday, and surprisingly, we didn’t just have fun with it, we actually learned from them. Mr. Lorenz, (probably known best for his “boot” speech and his various ties he wore), was always jumping around (literally) proving his point. It was obvious that his love belonged to teaching, and how he wanted us to realize that even kids can make a difference.

It was only a couple months ago when Mr. Lorenz was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease, a tragic disease that gradually deteriorates the nerve cells in the central nervous system that controls the voluntary muscle movement. The disease slowly causes muscle weakness throughout the entire body, and eventually the brain loses its ability to control all voluntary movement. Lou Gehrig’s disease has no cure, and its cause is still unknown. It seems appalling to witness why such a great person were to deserve this. And it was on Saturday morning, December 2, when the disease finally took his life. But God made a decision, and at least we can rest assured that Virgil Lorenz is having the time of his life right now in heaven. His memorial service was held here at Valley Christian’s Gym last Saturday, where many people attended to honor one of the greatest teachers to have lived. It always seemed to me that Mr. Lorenz was the type of person that would live forever; I still remember countless memories that happened in room E401 on the fourth floor.

Despite this unfortunate loss, we should try to be grateful that those of us who knew him got the chance to learn from such a great person. His enthusiasm to entertain and educate never died, I hope that we all have the chance to meet him again in paradise. Mr. Lorenz, you will be with us in our hearts always, and we’ll see you soon.

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