David G. Gnirk was born and raised on a ranch near Burke, South Dakota. He still lives on and works the ranch that has been in his family for over 100 years. He knows that God has placed him here and counts it a great privilege to be a steward of this piece of God’s green earth.
David graduated from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology with a degree in mechanical engineering.
In 1979, David was baptized and became a member of First Baptist of Lucas, SD. He raised his family there and continues to attend and support this little country church that is so important to him and his family.
For the American Baptist Churches of the Dakotas, David has served as President and was nominated as the regional representative to the ABC General Board. Other involvements include American Baptist Men, Camp Judson in the Black Hills. And as the result of his faithful service, David received the 1998 ABC of the Dakotas Leadership Award.
Nationally, David has served as President of AB Men, member on the Board of Educational Ministries, General Board Executive Committee, Budget Review Committee, and currently on the Board of International Ministries. He is also serving in the American Baptist Foundation and the ABCUSA Mission Development Task Force.
David loves the Lord and has great concern for people to know the Lord. He has the distinguished reputation to meet everyone he meets and then shares with people his love for the Lord. He is generous with his time, with his talents, and with his finances to help those in need. David is a “people person” and thoroughly enjoys meeting and getting to know people from all walks of life.
David’s local pastor, Mark Tuttle said, “David has been a light in the darkness wherever he goes. He has been a great ambassador for Christ as he has traveled all around the country. David has the ability to see with vision that few others possess. He sees things as they could be and says, “Why not?””
David and his wife, Elaine are blessed with 3 daughters, 3 son-in-laws and 8 grandchildren.
The Board of General Ministries proudly recognizes David G. Gnirk’s love of God that is making a difference in how Jesus’ love is lived out in the American Baptist family and its mission. It is with great honor that I present this biennial’s 2015 John and Cora Sparrowk President’s Award to David G. Gnirk!