Dr. Gerald A. Close
Dr. Gerald A. Glose knew from an early age that he wanted to be a missionary. He was born and reared on a farm near Cando, North Dakota, and attended a Methodist church in his youth. He received his B. A. degree from Taylor University in 1953 and his medical degree from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in 1957. Shortly thereafter, he enrolled at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in preparation for his mission service abroad.
Gerald and his former spouse served as missionaries in Zimbabwe, then known as Southern Rhodesia, for ten years - from 1960 until 1970. Three of their five children grew up in Zimbabwe, and the fourth child was born there. The couple chose Zimbabwe as their mission site for two reasons. First, Mrs. Close's aunt, Marguerite Deyo, was serving as a missionary at the Mutambara Mission site at the time. Secondly, Gerald had befriended a fellow student at Taylor University, Elisha Mutasa, who was the son of Chief Mutasa of the Manicaland Province. Elisha spoke often of his beloved homeland and of his intent to return.
Gerald was the first medical doctor to be assigned to the Mutambara Mission Hospital. During his missionary service, he grew to love and appreciate the country and its gracious people. He formed many close friendships that have continued over the past fifty-nine years.
Gerald returned to Zimbabwe twice since leaving in 1970. He returned in 1981 shortly after the country gained its independence in 1980, and he returned in 1997 to visit the new United Methodist-related pan-African university that had been built at the Old Mutare Mission site – Africa University.
Gerald has kept abreast of the university's development over the years and has been a long-time supporter since his first visit to the campus. He recently revised his estate plans to include the university as a beneficiary. When asked why he did so, he thoughtfully replied, "I believe strongly that education is the key for the continued development of Zimbabwe and the continent of Africa. My hope is that my gift will help educate talented young men and women, regardless of economic status, for leadership roles in their respective countries."