There has been a changing of the guard, as Heaven has called home one of its beloved sons. On 12 December 2015, Brian Keith Hontz, Sr . has moved his residence from earthly streets to the heavenly courts of our King and Savior. Always willing and able to serve, he received this last set of orders in the comfort of his quiet home; while enjoying the presence of his dear wife of 36 years, Kathryn Verdier, and faithful pup, Romeo William. He lived each and every day to its fullest, with joy and thanksgiving; and was often found encouraging others by reminding them that "every day is a good day, just some are better than others."

He has touched the lives of many, but those who have been impacted most by his fingerprint of integrity and faithfulness are his children: Jessica Verdier Hontz Miller married to Lee A. Miller III, Erin Elizabeth Hontz, Brian Keith Hontz Jr and his lovely bride, Katelyn Annette; along with a precious blessing in the form of a grandson. His presence was felt within the circle of family members including his in-laws, Jesse and Janet Miller, his sister and brother in-law, Beth and Jeff Clineff and their children Rachael and Russell. He deeply loved his sisters Debbie and Beverly, recently mourned the loss of his older sister Colleen, and was saddened when he had to say a final farewell to his older brother, Gary Lee, whom he looked up to with great admiration. He also had to endure the loss of his mother, June S. Wasser Hontz and father, Elmer P. Hontz Jr. His life was heavy impacted when his beloved uncle, Darrold Wasser, was called into the presence of the Lord.

Soon after his 1979 graduation from Bangor Area High School, he reported for training at Parris Island, South Carolina. He proudly served 23 years, as both an active-duty and reserve United States Marine, before his 2001 retirement at Willow Grove Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, wearing the chevrons of a Master Sergeant. He spit-shined his boots, polished his brass and wore his uniform with pride every chance he could, to show that his blood truly ran red, white and blue. Semper Fi!

He also dedicated many years to the families of those behind the uniform, as his rock-steady hands filled numerous roles within the Family Advocacy Center at Willow Grove, until its gates were shuttered in 2011. One not to take this second retirement, from Federal Civil Service sitting down, he soon found a new way to support the spouses of active-duty military personnel, as a Career and Education counselor for a government contracted service. He could often be found as a speaker at conferences throughout the United States and within classrooms at local community colleges.

His love for his Lord, Jesus Christ, his dedication to family and his service among the body of believers at the Bangor Church of the Nazarene, has left a legacy of honor, courage and commitment. His deeply vested interest in classic 60's muscle cars, motorcycles, weightlifting, running, 1950's memorabilia and music only start to describe his fullness in enjoying the life the Lord graced Him with. His tender heart was often found in a servant-like manner handing out food to the homeless, providing toys for the needy, and serving God teamed up with his beloved wife.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday 19 December 2015 at the Bangor Church of the Nazarene, 150 Bunny Trail Road, Bangor, PA at 10:30 am. Rather than sending flowers, follow our dear retired Marine's footprint and send monetary donations to the Bangor Church of the Nazarene for the continuance of spreading God's Word of hope and mercy to all.