The Nielsen Family Blog: Our Hearts are Grieving

Early yesterday morning John received a text from an unknown number to pray for Derek Loux as he had been in a serious car accident. Only a short time later we received news that he had passed away. Our hearts were in shock all day as we went through our already scheduled birthday parties and other activities. Waking up today I feel no different. It seems so unfair and unjust. Like something irreplaceable has been stolen. Derek played a part in us coming to Kansas City in 2006. We visited in the early spring of 2006 to talk about the Forerunner Music School that was being formed at the time. During that conversation Derek shared 3 reasons they made the move to IHOP, we had to laugh to ourselves because they were the same things in our heart and what he shared was just confirmation that we were to make the move. I don't know that we ever shared that with him.

IHOP releases this statement yesterday-

Dear IHOP–KC family,
Derek Loux, who has been such an important part of our IHOP–KC family for many years, is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Early this morning as he was traveling home from Colorado, Derek was killed in an automobile accident when his car hit a patch of black ice. Derek had been in Colorado to receive more extensive training in how to minister to victims of human trafficking,
For years, this precious man of God has faithfully served his Lord and our missions base in so many areas, including helping pioneer the Forerunner Music Academy where he served as director. Derek was part of the IHOP-KC senior leadership team, a worship leader in the house of prayer, and a frequent IHOP–KC conference speaker. He has recorded professionally as a musician, singer, and songwriter, including his albums Paper Religion and Fragrant Burning. Before joining IHOP–KC he served as the director of IHOP-Indianapolis for four years.
Derek’s life passion was adopting and restoring orphans; he pioneered the vision of the Orphan Justice Center—a haven of restoration for rescued orphans. OJC recently become an official part of IHOP–KC. His tireless voice for the weak and voiceless indelibly marked us all. How we will miss him.
Renee and the children will need so very much love and support, not only in these first weeks, but for many years. In the immediate, Pamela Stead will spearhead all practical care for the family. Please contact her (pamelastead@ihop.org) if you would like to be involved in practical helps. We ask you to please give the Loux family (immediate and extended) privacy to grieve, and only go to the home if invited. There will be many ways to give—meals, childcare, home care, finances. More details will follow soon on how you can give to this precious family. We will also let you know the memorial plans.
We do not grieve as those who have no hope, but oh how we grieve. For Renee, for children who have lost their earthly father, and for our family who has lost a marvelous comrade. Until that Day when He dries every tear . . . we mourn with the Loux family.

The IHOP–KC Leadership Team