Rev. William Wallace MacKinney

William MacKinney, age 81 of Shoreview passed away July 30, 2016 after a long battle with cancer. William was born in Fall River, Massachusetts, the child of Rev. Archie and Doris MacKinney. Born into a pastor's family, he learned early the value of living for the Lord. He graduated from high school in North Syracuse, New York. In 1958 he graduated from Bethel University followed by his Seminary degree in 1962. Included in his education was a 5 month abroad term in Israel. While in seminary he met his wife Karin Carlson and they married in 1964. Together, they served churches in Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. He was faithful to God, his wife and his family. He then had a career in fund raising and chaplaincy for a retirement facility. He was also volunteer police chaplain for the Ramsey County Sheriff's Department for 17 years. He was a man of prayer and study. He started every morning, without fail, with devotions and prayer. Even when he was weak with pain or discouragement, he never wavered from his commitment to spend time with the Lord. Daily, his children, grandchildren and great grandson were prayed for and they knew it. He reminded them often and they never doubted his love. He led a meaningful life and taught his children and grandchildren "The essence of life is knowing and serving the Lord." In addition to living for the Lord, he also passed on the value of education, and working hard. College was expected and encouraged, and being a life-long learner was modeled to his family. With every task he began, whether it was mowing the lawn, fixing an antique chair or making his famous rice pudding, it was done with enthusiasm and dedication to quality. He was a beloved pastor, welcoming, warm and enthusiastic. He was approachable and kind to those whom he counseled and taught. He enjoyed singing, woodworking, fixing things, and worldwide travel. After retiring from full time ministry, he never quit teaching and evangelizing to anyone he encountered. Even on his hospital bed he would show interest in the health care staff's lives and talk to them about the Lord. His spirit of indomitable cheerfulness in the face of cancer, pain and suffering was a wonder to all who encountered him. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Karin; children Karla MacKinney, Paul (Michelle) MacKinney and Jeremy MacKinney. His grandchildren include Noah Rolf, Rachel (Akshay) Singh, Anna Rolf and Connor William MacKinney; great grandson Elijah Singh. Also surviving are siblings Archie (Shirley) MacKinney Jr., and Carolyn Raffensperger and many nieces and nephews. Gathering 4-7 PM Friday, August 5 at HOLCOMB-HENRY-BOOM-PURCELL, 515 Hwy. 96 W., Shoreview. Memorial service 11 AM Saturday, August 6 (gathering begins at 10 AM) at GRACEPOINT CHURCH, 2351 Rice Creek Road, New Brighton. Family burial in North Isanti Baptist Cemetery. Memorials preferred to Salem Baptist Foundation, Bethel University or Union Gospel Mission. Bill will be remembered for his commitment to the Lord, and his family. His passion was to "finish well." His beautiful singing voice lives on in his recordings. He has finally joined the heavenly choir. His legacy lives on in his children, grandchildren and great grandson. "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Tributes

Rev. William Wallace MacKinney

September 27, 1934 - July 30, 2016

Tributes

Rev. William Wallace MacKinney

September 27, 1934 - July 30, 2016

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