HCJB World Radio retiree John Osborne died at his home in Colorado Springs, Colo., Saturday, Dec. 23, after 33 years of missionary service. He was 78.

Born in South Haven, Kansas, on Dec. 5, 1928, John and his wife, Marian, joined the mission in 1973 after having served as house parents for delinquent boys at the Faith Home Teen Ranch in Turlock, Calif., for 17 years.

John graduated from Rockmont College (now called Colorado Christian University) with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1953. He also worked in administration with the U.S. Army in Presido, Calif., and a children's home in New Britain, Conn., before joining the boys' ranch.

Throughout the years, John served in many capacities with HCJB World Radio, starting off in the locks and keys department in Quito, Ecuador. He would later serve in many key administrative posts, directing tours and hospitality as well as general services. He became the assistant to the field director for Ecuador and personnel director.

Meanwhile, Marian also served in areas such as tours and hospitality, television (writing scripts and researching programs), music, radio broadcasting and English correspondence.

John and Marian were the first managers at the new HCJB Guesthouse in Quito after its completion and were responsible for the warm and lovely decor and the gracious spirit of hospitality established to welcome all who have stayed there.

John also directed the Summer Missionary Program, served on the housing committee and acted as a youth sponsor at English Fellowship Church in Quito.

In 1985 the Osbornes were transferred to the mission's international headquarters near Miami, Fla., where John served as director. They were constantly involved in home Bible studies and teaching Sunday school. In Florida they had an outreach to international students attending the University of Miami.

They followed the mission when the international headquarters moved to Colorado Springs in 1992, serving in areas such as mission representation and broadcasting.

When asked in an interview several years ago what his most satisfying experience with the mission was, John replied, "Too many to share! But my most enjoyable assignment was being Ecuador personnel director. However, it was also the most difficult job and showed my weakness. It helped me to grow and depend more on the Lord."

John and Marian were also known for their sense of humor and hilarious skits, making newcomers and old-timers alike feel at home!

In addition to his wife, Marian, of 55 years, John is survived by two of his three children, David, 52 and Stephen, 50.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. (MST) Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007, at Village Seven Presbyterian Church in Colorado Springs. Dr. Jim Allen will be officiating. Your prayers for the Osborne family are deeply appreciated.