Rollin Hole

Wichita - John Rollin Hole, 82, passed away Sunday, September 26, 2021, at his residence in Wichita, KS.

He was born October 18, 1938, to Admiral Dewey Hole and Lillian Razor Hole in Muncie, Indiana.

Rollin Hole was born into the loving Christian family of Rev. Dewey and Lillian Hole. He was taught from birth to love the Lord, and he always said that his first words were part of a hymn.

Rollin learned the art of ministering to people as a young child. He watched his father go about his busy days caring for and meeting all the various needs of a pastor. Rollin saw that many days started early as his Dad would travel to another city to make hospital visits, then spend a full day with all the things on his list. He used to say that his Dad was a terrific people person, but he'd smile and say that he could still out-preach his Dad. This love of ministering to people was deeply planted in Rollin's heart and it carried through his entire life. He was a master at showing compassion and keeping the peace.

When Rollin was about age 18, he was at a church youth retreat. He was standing in a very large circle of friends. When the call came to give your life to Christ, Rollin stepped into the circle. That was the beginning of his life of service and ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Rollin faithfully and lovingly served congregations in Indiana, Oklahoma and Kansas for fifty years. He retired in 2008, saying he wanted to "go live life differently." He retired, moved and he and Martha bought their very first home, all at the same time, and relocated to Wichita, KS. He soon found a part-time job in the fuel center of a local Dillons.That soon became his new pulpit. He would notice anyone who might be having difficulties with the gas pumps and go to help them. As time went by, he became familiar with regular customers and as he learned about their lives, he often prayed with and for them. One such customer became his very close friend and at Rollin's invitation, he and his wife joined the Sunday School Class at Central Community Church.

Rollin was an active member of S.P.E.B.S.Q.S.A., "Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America." Interestingly, it was founded in 1938, the year that Rollin was born. He directed and sang in choruses and quartets. He also umpired baseball and was a basketball referee. He served on the Civil Defence squad in Oklahoma and Indiana, at times rescuing people during floods and if trapped in fires. One time he and a fellow worker responded to a call, only to find a mother on the floor in a dark house, about to have a baby. He did deliver that baby and they transported both to the hospital, successfully. In addition, he worked as a volunteer firefighter, and on one occasion found himself and a buddy trapped in the flooding basement of a large building. Thankfully, they were eventually found and rescued.

In Fairview, OK, where he pastored a church, he organized one of the largest parades they'd ever had and it was a huge success. In addition, as a young man, Rollin played Santa for over 25 years, and again very recently for a couple of years. He told of many experiences and stories, some happy and fun, others that would bring tears to your eyes.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Dewala Hole Niccum, and by his former wife, Marcia Hole.

Rollin is survived by his wife, Martha, his children, Lt. Col. Mark (Denise) Hole of Oklahoma City, OK, Clinton (Mindy) Hole of Yukon, OK and daughter, Andrea (Steve) Gegen of Cheney, KS,

and his brother, Howard (soon age 95) of Muncie, Indiana, as well as many cousins and other relatives.

Step-children are Dan (Pam) Lindgren, Woodbridge, VA, and Erika (Daniel) Lindgren Hedberg, Linkoping, Sweden.

Grandchildren are Jeri Dawn Hole, Sarah Gegen, Landon James Gegen, Reagan Grace Gegen, Mackenzie Jane Hole.

Step-Grandchildren: Emily Mae Lindgren, Erik Daniel Lindgren, Elise Nicole Lindgren, Benjamin Hugo Hedberg, Adeline Sophia Hedberg.

Memorial Service: 1:00 pm, Saturday, October 16, 2021, at the Central Community Church Chapel, 6100 W. Maple, Wichita, Kansas.

The service will be live-streamed. A link will be provided and made available from the church. (316-943-1800)

Memorial contributions may be made to Phillips Theological Seminary, 901 N. Mingo Rd., Tulsa, OK 74116

Smith Family Mortuary - Derby