Loren Dean Deckard

Loren Dean Deckard age 85, of Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 23, 2025.

Born in Athens, Illinois, Loren was the son of the late John and Ruth (Clemens) Deckard and the loving husband of Mary Jane (Diveley) Deckard for 64 years.

Loren was a devoted servant of the Lord throughout his life. He was a founding minister for two new churches: one in Bartonville, Illinois (1959-1967), and one in Joppatowne, Maryland (1967-1994). Loren's commitment to ministry extended beyond the pulpit as he served as an Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry at Manhattan Christian College of Manhattan, Kansas (1994-2004). After retiring, Loren continued his work in Christian service as the Director of Development for Polish Christian Ministries in Bel Air, Maryland (2004-2009), where he traveled to Poland six times. Loren also served as an adjunct professor at Eastern Christian College, Bel Air, MD, in the 1980s and early 1990s, and as a visiting lecturer at Springdale College in Birmingham, UK (1991). In addition, he taught at Mid-Atlantic Christian University in 2008 and 2009.

Loren was deeply involved in his community, serving as a volunteer chaplain at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore (1975-1979) and as coordinator of the Eastern Christian Convention (1984-1993). He was also an active member of the Joppatowne Christian Church, where he served as Pastor for many years.

In his personal life, Loren enjoyed working on car engines, a hobby that brought him much joy. He will be remembered for his dedication to his faith, his family, and his community.

In addition to his wife, Loren is survived by his daughters, Lori Jo Richardson (Frank) of Orefield, PA, Karen Mentlik (Gary) of Glen Rock, PA, Jill Mowrey (Steven) of Augusta, WV; son, Kirby Deater-Deckard (Keirsten) of S. Hadley, MA; sister, Delores Taylor; brother, Larry Deckard (Susan); 10 grandchildren; 5 great-granddaughters.

Contributions may be made to In lieu of flowers, to the Joppatowne Christian Church PO Box 489 Joppa, MD 21085 In memory of Loren Deckard.