Allan J. Mesko

Allan Mesko died unexpectedly on April 12, 2019, at St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas; he was 66 years old. He was preceded in death by his mother, Grace Niswonger; stepfather, Richard Niswonger; father, Allan J. Mesko, Sr.; and brothers Joe Mesko and Dean Mesko. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; children Brian (Melissa), Emily, and Sarah (Jeremy); grandson Benjamin; siblings Rick (Janet), John (Sarah), Kathy (Bob), Cindy (Mike), Christine, Terry (Chris), Jonathan, Tammy, Jennifer, Karen, and Bethany; stepmother Roberta; and eleven dear nieces and nephews. He graduated from Siloam Springs High School in 1971 and was chosen as a Presidential Scholar, one of two from the state of Arkansas. He earned a B.A. in Math and in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Arkansas, and an M.A. in Radio-TV-Film from the University of Texas. Allan's incredible musical gifts and love for leading others in worship endeared him to so many during his lifetime. He served as the keyboard player for the Bill Gaither Trio, and then as a worship leader at churches in Austin, Little Rock, Hot Springs, and most recently, Hope Church in Hot Springs. His other passion and primary vocation was teaching math and computer science at National Park College for the past 22 years. A man of profound faith and incredible intellect, he also had a goofy sense of humor and never met a stranger. He deeply loved his family, friends, church congregations, and his students; he appreciated the joys of sharing food, endless puns, and finding meaning in relationships. A celebration of Allan's life will be held Saturday, April 20, at 2 p.m. at Lake Valley Community Church, 910 Shady Grove Road, Hot Springs, Ark. Visitation will be held at the church, before the service from 12:30-2 p.m. Officiating pastors and friends will include Dru Dodson, Scott Davis, John Mesko, Keith Lynch, Robert Lewis, and Bill Wellons. A private burial will take place on Monday, with pallbearers Brian Mesko, Jeremy Breckbill, John Mesko, Rich Mesko, Zach Mesko, and Darrell Cheatham. For condolences and memorial donation suggestions, visit www.caruth-hale.com.