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Dr. Israel Loken, 58, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on June 29, 2026.

Born in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, Israel spent his early childhood there before moving with his family to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1979. He graduated from Lancaster Christian School and later from Lancaster Bible College. Israel often said he had the greatest childhood anyone could ask for, and the lifelong friendships he formed during those years remained among the deepest and most treasured relationships of his life.

It was in Lancaster that Israel met Kimberley Evans, the love of his life. They were married in 1994 and soon moved to Dallas, Texas, where Israel continued his theological education at Dallas Theological Seminary. There he earned both his Master of Theology (Th.M.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Bible Exposition.

A gifted teacher, scholar, and author, Israel wrote numerous books, including an extensive study of the biblical prophets—a subject he loved deeply and taught with great passion. He devoted the majority of his career to the College of Biblical Studies in Houston, Texas, where he faithfully served as Senior Professor and Chair of the Bible and Theology Departments. His commitment to biblical truth and to the spiritual growth of his students left an enduring legacy that will continue for generations.

Israel was ordained through Grace Bible Church of Houston and was a sought-after preacher, faithfully proclaiming God's Word in churches throughout the region and beyond. Alongside his wife, Kim, he lovingly counseled countless couples before and after officiating their weddings, investing deeply in their marriages and spiritual lives. Israel and Kim shared a love of adventure and treasured every opportunity to travel the world together, creating countless memories along the way. They also enjoyed spending time fishing, one of the many simple pleasures they loved to share.

A devoted sports fan, Israel was a loyal supporter of the Los Angeles Lakers, Green Bay Packers, New York Yankees, and Villanova Wildcats. He celebrated every victory with genuine enthusiasm and remained faithfully committed to his teams through every season. Whether discussing Scripture or the latest game, his passion was unmistakable, and those who knew him will always remember the joy and excitement he brought to both.

Israel was a gifted Bible teacher and theologian who invested in the lives of future pastors and ministry leaders. He served on the faculty of Dallas Theological Seminary, The Bible Seminary, and Grace School of Theology, where his love for God's Word, thoughtful teaching, and servant's heart left a lasting impact on countless students.

Those who knew Israel will remember his unwavering faith, remarkable intellect, generous spirit, and, above all, his love of the Bible. His influence on the Kingdom of God will be felt for years to come and all who had the privilege of knowing him were profoundly blessed by his life.

Israel is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Kimberley (Evans) Loken; his parents, Peter and Dawn Loken of Lancaster, Pennsylvania; his brother, Lance Loken, Karina of Houston, Texas; his sister, Hope (Loken) Klein and her husband, Thomas Klein, of Willow Street, Pennsylvania; his nephews, Jonathan and Joshua Klein; and his nieces, Kyleigh and Kiera Loken.

Though his earthly journey ended far sooner than those who loved him wished, Israel's greatest joy has now become his eternal reality: seeing face to face the Savior whom he faithfully served throughout his life.

2 Timothy 4:7-8

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

In lieu of flowers the family knows Israel would have wanted all contributions to go to his beloved CBS at https://cbshouston.edu/give-to-cbs/in-memory-of-dr-israel-loken/

Or

College of Biblical Studies

In Memory of Dr Israel Loken

7000 Regency Square, Houston, TX 77036.