The Rev. Dennis Mende, beloved longtime pastor of Holy Apostles Parish, died Wednesday night.

Mende meant so much to so many, as community members and parishioners shared. He was fondly remembered for his kindness, compassion and upbeat positivity.

Donna Gatz, the organist for the parish and Jubilate Youth Choir director, said she worked with Mende for 22 years. She said his passing was a loss, not only for the church, but for the community at large.

“He put his heart and soul into his ministry,” Gatz said. “(I remember) his concern for people, his support for me with my kids’ choir and the adult choir, his determination to see projects through, and his people skills in general. He was just very committed. He was never one to step down or back off — he would see it through in a gentle, well-managed administrative way.”

What Gatz remembered most fondly about Mende was his positive manner.

“I don’t remember any time he had some discouraging word for me, or where he was upset — he was always highly supportive,” she said. “He was so upbeat, I often wondered what kept him going at times.”

Gatz said Mende was also very supportive of the youth music programming and was always encouraging their growth.

“He supported the kids leading parts of the mass,” she said. “Many people would never have kids step up and lead the Psalm, Alleluia and Kyrie.”

Gatz said with Mende’s passing there is a feeling of “Where do we go?”

“We couldn’t be doing what we’re doing today without his strong support,” she said. “In March of 1999, he came; this past March was 22 years. Even his involvement in community things was always so positive. He was a mountain of strength.”

Brian Bogey remembered Mende’s welcoming spirit as Bogey often would play the organ for certain events at the parish. Bogey is the organist and Minister of Music at First Lutheran Church in Jamestown, but often played when needed at the parish.