Family of Missionary Who Died in Guatemala Expresses Faith
Contributed By From the Church News
Elder Joshua Allan Burton, 23, from Cardston, Alberta, Canada, died July 22 from trauma sustained in a vehicle accident while serving in the Guatemala Cobán Mission.
“We are certain Josh continues his journey as Josh and [that he] is joyfully serving his Heavenly Father and his Saviour.”
—Family statement
Elder Joshua Allan Burton, 23, from Cardston, Alberta, Canada, died the evening of Monday, July 22, from trauma sustained in a vehicle accident two days prior while serving in the Guatemala Cobán Mission. Elder Barton had been serving as a missionary for 21 months.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Elder Burton’s family and friends during this difficult time,” said Church spokeswoman Ruth Todd in a statement.
Elder Burton died of serious injuries resulting from a vehicle accident that occurred Saturday morning, July 20, as a group of young adults—some of them full-time missionaries—were traveling in a pick-up truck to help move a Guatemalan home to a safer location, according to a statement from his family. The others traveling with Elder Burton were either treated for injuries and released from medical care or, as of press time, receiving medical treatment and expected to fully recover, according to the family statement.
“We are certain Josh continues his journey as Josh and [that he] is joyfully serving his Heavenly Father and his Saviour,” said the family in the statement. “We are looking forward to seeing Josh again someday when it is our turn to return Home. ... Our hope and faith are intact. We are praying for healing for the driver of the vehicle in this accident so his life can continue in peace. We are also praying for the peace and understanding of those affected by Josh’s passing. At 23, he was filled with love of life. We believe he would be glad to know that his life, and death, moved others to live more fully.”
