Alvin Dieter Linde

Alvin Dieter Linde died on January 4, 2017. Alvin was born in Lancaster on March 1, 2016 with a severe congenital heart defect, and was expected to live no longer than a week at most. Through the gracious hand of God and the tenacity of Alvin, he survived and lived his 10 months to the fullest. Alvin joined his friends for baby dedication at his church, he took an airplane ride to North Carolina, he celebrated his 6 month birthday, he attended two family weddings, he saw pigs and goats at the Lancaster county fairs, he enjoyed sleepovers at his grandparents’ house, and he was honored by many visits from family and friends both near and far. Alvin’s trademark was his gigantic smile, his large brown eyes, and his hair that always stood on end. He loved rustling papers, being held, and riding around Lancaster city in the double stroller with his brother Henry. Alvin lived his short life courageously and abundantly, viewing his challenges through a broader lens than the normal human perspective. Alvin taught many to challenge and exceed expectations, he confounded the experts, he embraced the challenge with a strength, resiliency and attitude that is enviable. Alvin’s life and illness brought many questions about death and suffering and the role of God in the most painful moments of life. But the miracle of so much unexpected time with someone so wonderful as well as the hope for eternal life in Jesus is the best balm for the hearts of those who grieve Alvin’s loss. Alvin is survived by his parents, Cooper and Sarah Linde, and his big brother, Henry. Alvin is the grandson of Andrew and Tena Bell and Karl and Lynn Linde. Alvin is the great grandson of Jason and Leora Martin, Christine Bell, Robert and Macy West, and Karl Dieter (his namesake) and Else Linde. Alvin was well loved by his many aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends at West End Mennonite Fellowship. Alvin and his family are grateful for the excellent care he received from his doctors, nurses, therapists, and everyone else on Team Alvin. The prayers said on his behalf by so many have had an impact that cannot be fully understood or comprehended in this lifetime. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Water Street Mission in Lancaster, PA and the Zambia Project in Mongu, Zambia. A Memorial Service to celebrate Alvin’s life will be held at Mellinger Mennonite Church in Lancaster, PA on Friday, January 13, 2017 at 6:00 pm. All are welcome to attend. “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is my strength and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26