Gary Bishop, former president of Mission Aviation Fellowship, unexpectedly passed away of a heart attack on Monday, October 26, 2015.
Gary led MAF from October 1997 to February 2004, when the ministry was based in Redlands, California. Under his tenure, MAF developed its information technology and learning technology areas into stronger ministries, and began its Operation Access! research project, which identified isolated pockets of people who had not heard the Gospel. Gary also played a key role in early efforts to find a solution to avgas challenges that hamper missionary aviation. This work eventually led to the formation of Quest Aircraft Company and the development of the KODIAK aircraft.
After leaving MAF, Gary joined the World Bible Translation Center (now part of Bible League International), serving as its president and CEO. In 2009 he became president/CEO of Far Corners Missions in Lakeside, Texas, and was still serving in that role. Wherever he ministered, Gary’s wife, Donna, always served alongside him.
Please join the staff of MAF in giving thanks for Gary’s remarkable life of service.
Gary and Donna Bishop on a trip to Africa while he was president and CEO of MAF.
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I remember seeing Gary Bishop’s picture in the MAF Correspondence as he shared how God so wondrously worked out the fact that the position of MAF President & CEO suddenly became available to him as Gary was seeking such a position to serve in.
My deepest condolences go out to Gary’s wife Donna, and to Gary’s family and loved ones.
Gary may God gives you long life and strength as you continue serve Him
Bless you all
My wife and I were commissioned for ministry by Ron Moore at the South Hills Bible Chapel in 1997. He for ministry at MAF, and us for ministry with Wycliffe Bible Translators/JAARS assigned to Brazil. May God continue to bless the impact of Gary and Donna’s lives and give peace to the family.
I intended to state the Bishops were commissioned the same night with us for ministry.