My wife Dee works in Corporate Management for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.  Our son Josh is a Fire Fighter and lives in Bismark, ND.  Our daughter Jessica is married to Stanton Alleyne.  They have recently moved from Asheville, North Carolina, to Minneapolis which has been a blessing for Grandpa and Grandma as we are now much closer to enjoy our grandchildren, Justin and Kelsey.

My hobbies are like that of most pastors:  handgun, rifle and shotgun target shooting, reloading shot shell and metallic cartridges, hunting, fishing, lawn farming with John Deere’s, golfing, four-wheeling, riding my Harley, and I am a pilot (though not presently active in flying). 

I grew up on a dairy farm in Nebraska.  However, I am a Minnesotan by choice, loving the people and the lake and wooded country of this area.

Hobbies and Interests:  Family activities, gardening, cooking, music and movies

Favorite Bible verse:  II Corinthians 12:9a

I have been a pastor at First Lutheran Church since 2005.  Of all the ways I’m involved in the life of the congregation, I find the greatest joy in face-to-face experiences with others.  I love planning and being a part of worship where the message and music inspires and encourages us.  I enjoy being involved with and getting to know others, whether it be at a special event, on a trip, over a cup of coffee, or within a small group or class.  First Lutheran is an active, growing congregation that is a pleasure to be a part of.

My wife Sherry is a tremendous inspiration to me.  Sherry and I have been partners over the years, not only at home but also in our work.  Sherry was called and began serving as Associate Pastor here at First Lutheran in July 2008.  We have a daughter, Elizabeth, and a son, Aaron.  Elizabeth and Aaron bring a great deal of light and joy to our lives.  Family and all the activities and responsibilities connected with it are front and center to who we are. 

I also enjoy working outside in our yard, creating a beautiful place to live.  I like to cook and eat great food, entertain, listen to good music and see a movie now and then.

Hobbies and Interests:  All kinds of music, reading, writing, cooking, attending ballgames

Although my “official” call to First Lutheran is relatively recent, I have been on staff here since February of 2006.

In the past my main responsibilities here at church were in the areas of new members and small group development.  I continue to be involved in those ministries while also developing program for pastoral care and visitation.

I enjoy worship – the planning, preaching, liturgy, music - putting it together in a thematic way.

I enjoy visiting with people, learning their stories, offering support and encouragement.

I enjoy the staff here at First Lutheran and feel particularly grateful to work with my husband Greg.  We complement and challenge each other and bring strength and humor to our callings.  We are loving the activities and the relationships that we share with our daughter Elizabeth and son Aaron.  We count it a privilege to grow with them. 

Our family enjoys entertaining, travelling, great music, art, and books.  We want our home and our family to be where laughter lives and friends are always welcome.