Describe the path to your current vocation.

I decided to become a Lutheran school teacher when I was in high school.  My Pastor was a wonderful man who encouraged me to go into church work.  I also loved school and had many teachers who inspired me and challenged me as I grew up.  I decided to combine the two and become a Lutheran School teacher.  I went to College at Concordia St. Paul and majored in secondary education with a Mathematics major.  I took my first call to a junior high position at Immanuel in Crystal Lake, Illinois and, after teaching there for 13 years, I received a call to Bethany where I have been teaching ever since.

When did you become a Lutheran?

I was born to a strong Lutheran family and became a "true" Lutheran in October of 1965 when my parents brought me to be baptized at three weeks old!  I grew up in a small LCMS congregation in northern Minnesota that was like an extension of my family.  Church was, and is,  an important part of our family life, and I have never wandered from it!

What do you love most about your job?

I love to work with students and see them grow in their knowledge and faith as they progress through the classes I teach.  It is wonderful to be able to share the  Gospel with students and show them that it is something to be fed and nourished by Word and Sacrament, as we continue on life's journey.  

What was your longest or most favorite road trip?

My favorite road trip was a trip to South Dakota.  My wife and I, along with our four kids drove out to South Dakota to see Mt.  Rushmore and some of the other sights along the way.  We stopped at the Corn Palace on our way out and also took a detour through the Badlands. The Badlands were so incredible that we stopped again on our way back!  After that, we went to Ellsworth Air Force Base.  We also visited Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Devil's Tower in Wyoming!  My boys enjoyed all of the climbing around (especially after the long hours in the car).  I was never quite sure who had more fun climbing, them or me...  What made the trip so special was the opportunity to spend unbroken time with the family.  Family time is precious and hard to come by as the children get older.

What are your hobbies?

I have many hobbies that I use to keep me occupied!  I am into bicycling and gaming (both board games and video games).  I am also an avid reader, and enjoy spending time with my wife and children.