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Upcoming events
- Men's Bible Study GR/GRK(1 hour)
- Staff Meeting FR(3 hours)
- Adult Piano Class PL(3 hours)
- Adult Piano Class PL(4 hours)
- Project Car Steering CommTR(6 hours)
- Piano Classes PL(10 hours)
Recent blog posts
- Lenten Devotion for Wednesday, March 10
- Lenten Devotion for Tuesday, March 9
- Lenten Devotion for Monday, March 8
- Lenten Devotion for Saturday, March 6
- Lenten Devotion for Friday, March 5
- Lenten Devotion for Thursday, March 4
- Lenten Devotion for Wednesday, March 3
- Lenten Devotion for Tuesday, March 2
- Lenten Devotion for Monday, March 1
- Lenten Devotion for Saturday, February 27
First Lutheran Church Pastoral & Staff Directory
| View Pastoral & Staff Directory by: | Department with profile | First Name | Last Name |
Pastoral/Administrative Staff
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
Rev. Dr. John R. Christopherson | Pastor John Christopherson, the oldest of three children, was born at Bagley, Minn. in 1956 to parents Pastor James and Dorothy Christopherson. He spent his elementary years in the Minneapolis and Montevideo, Minn. area, and high school years in Madison, S.D. John describes himself as being “raised up in the womb of the church.” (His father is a Lutheran pastor and his mother is a composer of church music). He has fond memories of his time at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D., and during those years he attended First Lutheran Church and played in the brass choir. His wife, Cathy, is also a graduate of Augustana College, and received a M.S.E. in School Psychology from the University of Wisconsin. They have three children, Johnny, Sarah, and Matthew. Pastor John has a great passion for music and is an accomplished musician in trumpet and piano. His hobbies include art, golf, mountain hiking, biking, reading, skiing Big Sky, Mont., with family, and writing. He also is a published author. Professional Background: |
Rev. Natanael Lizarazo | Pastor Natanael Lizarazo, the youngest of five children, was born to a rural impoverished Colombian family. Economic limitations and scarcity of food contributed to a strong faith in God, a sense of gratitude and joy for the simplest blessings of life. Nate describes his childhood years as being grounded on a positive experience of worship, community service, a strong Christian education and supportive parents, teachers, and pastors. These factors were a natural part of his growing up in a rural congregation in the Andean Mountains of Colombia. The powerful sense of call he felt in his childhood was kept alive through his teen years, and after completing his secular studies, his family and the local and national church were instrumental in supporting his theological education at an inter-denominational seminary in Colombia. Nate’s cross-cultural as well as international experiences have widened and deeply enriched his ministry horizons. His work with refugees and vulnerable social groups has strengthened his passion and commitment to address the realities of social injustice, racism, discrimination and sexism from a Christian perspective. His wife, the Rev. Barbara Wangsness, a native of Decorah, Iowa, have one daughter, Liz. Professional Background: |
Rev. Barbara Wangsness | Pastor Barbara Wangsness is a native of Decorah, Iowa. The youngest of three children, she was raised in a rural family that faced the hardships through the grace-gift of a strong Christian faith. She is a “cradle Lutheran,” whose Norwegian ancestors homesteaded in Minnehaha County. Married to a Lutheran pastor who was born in Colombia, she speaks of the joys and challenges of being a bi-cultural family and of the richness available in the diversity of cultural interactions. Pastor Barbara rates the following areas as high priority: preaching, worship, leadership, ministering in crisis and visitation. All of these complement a pastor who is called to serve First Lutheran Church in the area of Pastoral Care. Pastor Barbara and her husband, the Rev. Natanael Lizarazo, have a daughter Liz. Professional Background: |
Rev. Jason Burggraff | Pastor Jason Burggraff was born in Fargo, N.D., to parents Gary and Emily Burggraff, on March 28, 1977. Along with his brother, Eric, Jason was raised-up within the womb of First Lutheran Church in Fargo. His first interest was the field of mechanical engineering, but eventually he was led to ministry. The reading, writing and the discovery of theology have been great joys in his education. When Jason was a university student, he became involved in various Lutheran Campus Ministry activities. During internship, he taught adult and youth classes, and enjoyed small group ministry very much. Jason is a gifted musician; he plays piano and cello and has played cello in three community symphony orchestras. This love for music led to a love for worship, music, hymnody and architecture as they relate to the life of the congregation. He has also developed a music-based Bible camp for kids. Leisure activities include walks, skiing, soccer, mountain biking, and building things; he has built a wooden kayak and dreams of building an airplane. He has a private pilot’s license. He spent a summer in Nairobi, Kenya, as a volunteer mechanic for the bush planes used by Africa inland Mission. Professional Background: |
Rev. Dave Johnson | |
Rev. LeeRoy Eikanger | Pastor LeeRoy Eikanger was born in Lincoln County near Beresford, S.D. to John and Solveig Eikanger, the eldest of three children. He went to school in one-room schoolhouse in Lincoln County. He attended Augustana Academy for high school in Canton, S.D. and graduated from Augustana College with a BA in business administration. He was encouraged by several pastors and classmates who enrolled at Luther Seminary to consider God’s calling him to serve as a pastor. He enrolled in Luther Seminary in 1950, graduated and was ordained in 1954.
His hobbies include pheasant hunting, fishing, traveling, visiting children and grandchildren. Professional Background: |
Rev. James Christopherson | Pastor Jim Christopherson calls Valley City, N. D., his home town. He graduated from high school and attended one year of college in Valley City before attending Augsburg College and Seminary (now Luther Seminary). He served three parishes in Minnesota (Bagley, Minneapolis, and Montevideo) and three in South Dakota (Madison, Canton, Our Savior’s in Sioux Falls). He and his wife, Dorothy, joined First Lutheran Church and he is currently serving as a visitation pastor. Duties as a visitation pastor include visiting hospitals and sometimes visiting members in nursing homes and in their own homes. He also leads Bible Studies, text studies and sometimes presides at a worship service and help serve communion. He is willing to serve wherever needed. If you were to ask him, “What is your favorite part of ministry at First Lutheran?”, he would say, visitation ministry is number one and a very close second would be leading Bible Studies.
|
Rev. LeRoy Nevin | Pastor LeRoy Nevin was born in Cumberland, Wis. to his parents Samuel and Gertude Nevin. He spent his six elementary years at Clinton rural school, his junior high years at Cumberland and graduates from Barron High School. He was blessed by his Christian higher education at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minn. and enjoyed singing in the Augsburg choir and male chorus. As a pre-seminary student, he graduates from Augsburg and enrolled that fall in Augsburg Theological Seminary in Minneapolis. He loved the Biblical and theological studies with such a close relationship with faculty and 30 fellow classmates! His wife Elaine and he started dating in high school, and after her graduation, she later became the bookkeeper for the national Augustana Lutheran Church office in Minneapolis, Minn. They were united in marriage in July of 1955 in Cumberland, Wis. Elaine enjoyed Augustana very much, until their first child was born. Now they have four children: Philip, Joyce, Paul, Joel and three daughter-in-laws. They also are blessed with six grandchildren, whom they love. Both of them enjoy their membership and ministry at First Lutheran Church, visiting with their families in Sioux Falls, Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn. and with their relatives in Wis. In their free time, they enjoy reading, visiting, traveling, attending school, church, music and sports events, plus church worship with their children and grandchildren. Professional Background: |
Rev. Franklin Pudas | Pastor Franklin Pudas recently started as part-time visitation pastor at First Lutheran, taking on the duties left by Pastor Paul Sanders who recently retired. His primary duties include visiting those who are homebound. Pastor Pudas was born in Sebeka, Minn., and raised in Cloquet, Minn., near Duluth. He is a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead and Luther Seminary in St. Paul. He married Marit Running in 1957. Pastor Pudas served as parish pastor in Rosholt, S.D., for 10 years, and at First Lutheran Church in Mitchell for 16 years. He then moved to Sioux Falls where he worked for the ELCA Foundation for 14 years. He has been retired for 11 years. Pastor Pudas and his wife joined First Lutheran Church in February. “We know a lot of the people at church already,” he said, “but I am looking forward to getting acquainted with other persons and being a part of the worship life.” Professional Background: |
Marilyn McNeill | Marilyn McNeill Background: I grew up on a farm in White Lake, S.D., with eight brothers and sisters. I have two adult children and a precious granddaughter. I enjoy reading and walking. Favorite part of my job: The people I get to work with—the members and the staff. I especially like the variety in my position. |
Carol Knapp |
Children, Youth, Young Adult and Family Life Ministries
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
Marnie Dahle Backer
Director of Youth Ministries
ext. 13
mdbacker [at] flcsf [dot] org
Marnie Dahle Backer
Responsibilities: I work with all things related to youth and young adult ministries, including family ministry.
Background: I grew up in the great North Dakota small town of Mohall and the capital city Bismarck. But my true North Dakota home is Lake Metigoshe where my parents and grandparents each had cabins that we spent a lot of time at growing up. We moved to Sioux Falls when I was a junior in high school. I graduated from Washington High where I first met my husband, Jeff. Jeff and I have been married since 1995 and we have 2 amazing boys, Harrison and Finnigan. I went to Augustana College where I then worked for 11 years as the director of outreach ministries. Since 2001, I have worked at First Lutheran. I love music (James Taylor especially!), being outside, reading, being at the lake, and spending time with friends and family.
Favorite part of my job: My favorite part of my work at FLC is the people for sure! There are so many interesting dynamics in the life of one person. Helping them to move through their journey knowing that God is with them wherever they go is amazing.
Debbie Garcia
Administrative Assistant
ext. 34
dgarcia [at] flcsf [dot] org
Debbie Garcia
Responsibilities: Mailings related to events, room reservations, camps and event registrations, entering attendance for confirmation and FaithWalkers, scheduling acolytes and meeting minutes.
Background: I grew up in Jackson, Minn. I have a son, Pedro, and two Newfoundland dogs (each weighing more than 100 pounds) and one bunny. I enjoy going to the dog park, relaxing at home and spending time with family and friends.
Favorite part of my job: Prayer, devotions and fellowship.
Nancy Henrichsen
Director of Children’s Ministries
ext. 45
nancyh [at] flcsf [dot] org
Nancy Henrichsen
Responsibilities: I am responsible for FaithWalkers (Sunday school), which takes place on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. (FaithWalkers are 3-year-olds through fifth-graders.) I also work with Marnie, Mara and Melody in Family Ministry, helping to organize activities that reach across age boundaries. Melody and I team with Irma Rodriguez to provide nursery care for infants through 2 year olds.
Background: I was raised in Rapid City, S.D., and graduated from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D. with degrees in theatre and elementary education. I indulge in music, travel and theatre in my spare time.
Favorite part of my job: Since my two children are raised, it’s especially fun for me to continue to watch young children grow and change. I love singing with them!
Mara Stillson
Associate Director of Youth Ministries
ext. 41
mstillson [at] flcsf [dot] org
Mara Stillson
Responsibilities: I work with the middle school and high school youth… and all other duties as assigned.
Background: I grew up in Huron, S.D. I graduated from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D. with a degree in music (vocal) and minor in religion. I am married to Kevin who works in the South Dakota Synod Office. I love to run, sing, play violin, guitar and piano and be outside.
Favorite part of my job: I love the energy of the youth and being part of the family of wonderful people who call First Lutheran home!
Melody Roberts
Nursery Coordinator/Children’s Ministries Assistant
ext. 25
mroberts [at] flcsf [dot] org
Irma Rodriguez Leon
Nursery Attendant
ext. 40
Irma Rodriguez Leon
Responsibilities: Provides childcare in the nursery during worship services on Sunday mornings.
Background: I am a native of Colombia. I am a mother and grandmother and work as a nanny during the week. I also work part-time with Hispanic ministry at Augustana Lutheran.
Favorite part of my job: Being a part of the FLC community.
Heidi Tooley
Recreational Ministries Coordinator
ext. 10
Heidi Tooley
Responsibilities: Coordinating and scheduling Christian based recreational events.
Background: I grew up in Pequot Lakes, Minn. I am married to Mark and they have two girls, Isabella and Caitlyn. I enjoy playing piano, gardening and painting.
Favorite part of my job: Meeting the people of the congregation and helping them become involved with more activities and creating active fellowship interactions.
Financial Services
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
LaVonne Wolf
Financial Specialist
ext. 18
lwolf [at] flcsf [dot] org
LaVonne Wolf
Responsibilities: I work with all things related to finances, such as contributions, memorials, yearly pledges, radio and television sponsorships and all functions pertaining to accounts payable, general ledger, and payroll-related items.
Background: I grew up in Minnesota in a rural farming community. My parents gave me the foundation for my faith and my Christian upbringing. My husband, Don, and I have passed this foundation off to our three children who are all married and starting families of their own. My hobbies include reading and putting together scrapbooks for my three grandchildren.
Favorite part of my job: The interaction that I get to have with so many wonderful church members. This church is such an awesome place, and the potential for its continued growth due to the loyalty of each and every member is amazing. The staff is very dedicated to working hard for the church and its many ministries. With God’s blessings, First Lutheran Church will flourish. It is a great blessing for me to be a part of it.
Library
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
Barbara Siebelts
Library Coordinator
ext. 43
bsiebelts [at] flcsf [dot] org
Barbara Siebelts
Responsibilities: I coordinate and supervise volunteers, information, and materials in our First Lutheran Church Library. My job includes, but is not limited to, purchasing, weeding, repairing and organizing books.
Background: I was born and raised in Sioux Falls, and was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church. I love this house of worship as my home because of the many people who have been and are part of this community. I’m married to Miles, and his children are the children of my heart, Cari and Blake. The only color coordinated part of our household are our black, tan, and white two dogs (Penny and Mason Lee) and one cat (Digger). I love Bible study, writing, speaking to groups, computers, Scrabble, Yahtzee, spiritual gifts, movies, books and music.
Favorite part of my job: The people. This isn’t just a job, this is a ministry. People come for a specific book or because they need simply to have a listening ear, a cup of coffee, and a smile. I am privileged to share Jesus, and to have a supply of materials with which to nourish faith.
Media Ministries
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
Kathy Hein
Broadcast Technical Director
ext. 15
Kathy Hein
Responsibilities: Directing the weekly broadcast on KSFY and KELO-FM, including working with volunteers who operate soundboards and cameras and announce, and placing the computer graphics on screen.
Tyler Johnson
Broadcast Technical Director
ext. 15
Tyler Johnson
Responsibilities: Directing the weekly broadcast on KSFY and KELO-FM, including working with volunteers who operate soundboards and cameras and announce, and placing the computer graphics on screen.
Heather Kuecker
Media Assistant
ext. 20
hkuecker [at] flcsf [dot] org
Heather Kuecker
Responsibilities: I design various media items including bulletin covers, brochures, posters, postcards, print ads and others as needed. I help Communication Coordinator Kerrie Vilhauer with whatever she needs. And I help to maintain the FLC Web site and Facebook page. I also schedule volunteers to help with the weekly broadcast and telecasts.
Background: I grew up on a farm near Webster, S.D., with my parents, three older sisters and one younger brother. After high school graduation, I went to Dakota State University in Madison, S.D. and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Graphic Design. I now reside in Ramona, S.D. where I also work at the Ramona Assisted Living Center. In my limited spare time, you can find me on the phone, in my car and probably on my way to see family or friends.
Favorite part of my job: Getting to know and work with the staff and being able to use my creative talents.
David Palmer
Broadcast Technical Director
ext. 15
David Palmer
Responsibilities: Directing the weekly broadcast on KSFY and KELO-FM, including working with volunteers who operate soundboards and cameras and announce, and placing the computer graphics on screen.
Kerrie Vilhauer
Communications Coordinator
ext. 15
kvilhauer [at] flcsf [dot] org
Kerrie Vilhauer
Responsibilities: I edit and design First Lutheran’s monthly newspaper, the First Word, and work on other print pieces such as bulletins, the annual report, devotionals, brochures and more. On the electronic side, I work on First Lutheran’s Web site and Facebook page. We’re always looking for new and innovative ways to get the word out!
Background: I grew up in Sioux Falls and had a five-year stint in St. Cloud, Minn. before coming back home. I love to cook (I have a drawer full of spices to prove it) and spending time outside. I’m married to another communicator, Corey, and we have two children (three if you count the terrier). When I’m not working, you can find me training the 2-year-old on the fine art of bread making.
Favorite part of my job: I’m in awe of the many caring and wonderful people who call First Lutheran home. While most people come to church on Sunday, the mission and ministry that takes place during the week is amazing: volunteers who come weekly to staple the bulletins, staff members who work so hard together to complete a last-minute project, shop workers who patch a wall in one of the offices, 90-year-old volunteers who send out mailings, and more!
Joe Ward
Broadcast Technical Director
ext. 15
Joe Ward
Responsibilities: Directing the weekly broadcast on KSFY and KELO-FM, including working with volunteers who operate soundboards and cameras and announce, and placing the computer graphics on screen.
Outreach Ministries
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
Linda Carpenter
Visitor/Volunteer Coordinator
ext. 36
lcarpenter [at] flcsf [dot] org
Linda Carpenter
Responsibilities: I coordinate volunteers for a variety of First Lutheran and community activities. In addition, I also organize and lead the new member Discovery Classes. If you’re interested in membership at First Lutheran, please contact me; we would love to see you around the church!
Background: I was born in Des Moines, Iowa, later moved to Estherville, Iowa, and then Montgomery, Ala. I have two children, Amber and Hunter and a step-son, Cory. My husband, Scott, is in the Air National Guard. My hobbies are exercising, riding on the motorcycle, sitting outside on the patio and spending time with my family and friends.
Favorite part of my job: Feeling like part of a big family with my co-workers and members of the church. I really like working with all of the wonderful and friendly members. I enjoy being a part of all the volunteering that happens here and the impact it make at First Lutheran and in the community.
Pastoral Care Ministries
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
Paula Bartels
Parish Nurse
ext. 24
nurse [at] flcsf [dot] org
Paula Bartels
Responsibilities: the parish nurse serves as an advocate for parishioners, encourages healthy living body, mind and spirit.
Background: I grew up on a farm south of Spencer, Iowa with my parents and one younger brother Paul. My training took place at Sioux Valley School of Nursing, Parish Nurse Coarse at Augustana College in June of 2005. My husband is Lowell and we have three adult children (two are married), and three grandsons—one is 3 ½ years and twins born on June 4, 2009. I enjoy nature and the outdoors, going for walks, listening to good music, reading and people.
Favorite part of my job: Getting to know the people and staff at First Lutheran, and working with so many talented volunteers!
Arlene Bich
Wedding Coordinator
ext. 26
Dr. Mark Britzman
Christian Counselor (consultant)
ext. 16
Sarah Hagenlock
Wedding Coordinator
ext. 26
Sherri Schroden
Wedding Coordinator
ext. 26
Charlotte Peters
Caring Ministry Coordinator
ext. 22
cpeters [at] flcsf [dot] org
Charlotte Peters
Responsibilities: I assist Pastor Barbara Wangsness and coordinate the work in Caring Ministries. It involves organizing meetings with visitation pastors and overseeing the ongoing programs such as a service of prayers for healing once a month, support groups, Stephen Ministers, Friendly Visitors, Holy Communion at nine retirement/nursing homes two times a year, and partnering with the parish nurse and Holistic Health Cabinet. I also make sure that the Care Notes are available to the congregants as well as distribute prayer shawls and “Bread for This Journey.”
Background: I grew up in 10 little towns across South Dakota and Nebraska, because my parents were a superintendent of schools and a teacher. Graduating from Augustana Academy, Augustana College and St. Joseph College (West Hartford, Conn.) put me on a path toward a seminary, but this plan was interrupted. I have three adult children and three grandchildren. Every day I spend five hours with my grandson, Max.
Favorite part of my job: Assisting Pastor Barbara.
Property and Administrative Services
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
John Cerwinske
Custodian
ext. 29
John Cerwinske
Responsibilities: To serve the church by providing custodial services to church buildings and grounds. I maintain the overall church appearance both internally and externally.
Background: I grew up in Sioux Falls. I have two older brothers. I play the drums.
Favorite part of my job: I enjoy the people the most. The congregation is very supportive of us also.
Jeff Hartnett
Custodian
ext. 29
Jeff Hartnett
Responsibilities: To serve the church by providing custodial services to church buildings and grounds. I maintain the overall church appearance both internally and externally.
Background: My hobbies include NASCAR and football.
Rob Oswald
Facilities Manager
ext. 29
Rob Oswald
Responsibilities: To serve the church by supervising the care and maintenance of church buildings and grounds, and overseeing the efficient preparation of facilities in order to accommodate the varied programs presented in the church buildings.
Connie Corey
Receptionist/Member Secretary
ext. 10
receptionist [at] flcsf [dot] org
Connie Corey
Responsibilities: Answering the phone, updating membership information, completing forms for baptisms, weddings and new member classes, arranging funerals, checking the newspaper for deaths and births, updating the calendar and helping members that come in with different things.
Background: I have four adult children who live out of state and six grandchildren. I live in Canton, SD. My hobbies are cooking, entertaining, reading, walking each day and music, which is usually on in my home.
Favorite part of my job: My greatest gift is to be employed here at First Lutheran. I work with such an incredible group of people who are very much like family to me. I job share with Barb Johnson and Kristy Zuraff, and we do very well as a team!
Barbara Johnson
Receptionist/Member Secretary
ext. 10
receptionist [at] flcsf [dot] org
Barbara Johnson
Responsibilities: Answering the phone, updating membership information, completing forms for baptisms, weddings and new member classes, arranging funerals, checking the newspaper for deaths and births, updating the calendar and helping members that come in with different things.
Background: I am a widow and a native of Minnesota. I moved to Sioux Falls in January 1989 because of my work with the U.S. Postal Service. I retired in December 2000. I have two daughters (and two sons-in-law) and five grandchildren. My hobbies include cooking, reading, spending time with friends and family, going to the lake and hanging out with my 12-year-old cat Arne.
Favorite part of my job: I am so very lucky to be able to work at First Lutheran. I particularly enjoy all of the people who work here, volunteer here and just pop in. I really missed people when I retired and working here has filled that void for me.
Kristy Zuraff
Receptionist/Member Secretary
ext. 10
receptionist [at] flcsf [dot] org
Kristy Zuraff
Responsibilities: Answering the phone, updating membership information, completing forms for baptisms, weddings and new member classes, arranging funerals, checking the newspaper for deaths and births, updating the calendar and helping members that come in with different things.
Background: I grew up in Sioux Falls. I’m married to Paul Zuraff and have two sons, Joshua, 27, and Shawn, 22. We also have three dogs Shade, Kayle and Tucker, and a cat, Maggie Mae. I like to cook, read, travel, and go boating and camping. I also enjoy going to wineries.
Favorite part of my job: My favorite part of being here is working with all of the great people, staff and volunteers. Everyone is so nice and would do anything for you.
Worship and Music Ministries
To call a staff member, dial First Lutheran’s direct phone number (605) 339-1983 and use the extension located to the right of his/her name.
Shirley Barlow
Administrative Assistant
ext. 35
sbarlow [at] flcsf [dot] org
Shirley Barlow
Responsibilities: I am the administrative assistant for Worship and Music, responsible for a variety of worship-related function including, but not limited to, scheduling worship volunteers and planning and proofing the bulletin.
Background: I grew up in Madison, S.D. and I have two children and four grandchildren.
Favorite part of my job: The people.
Dorothy Christopherson
Women’s Choir Director
ext. 35
Dorothy Christopherson
Responsibilities: Director of the Women’s Choir which has 30 to 35 members. I also volunteer as a facilitator for the FLC Piano Lab.
Background: I grew up on a farm in southern Wisconsin with three brothers. I graduated from Blanchardville High School in Wisconsin and then went to Augsburg College in Minneapolis, where I received a degree in music. After graduation I taught vocal music in Stoughton, Wis. for two years. I received my master’s degree in piano performance at the University of South Dakota. My husband, Jim and I have three children, John, Mary and Tom, and seven grandchildren. My hobbies include composition, knitting, gardening, reading and travel.
Favorite part of my job: First Lutheran is a great congregation, so I enjoy participating in several things. Women’s Choir has been a special joy as well as teaching Piano Lab and being a member of the Katie Circle.
Dr. Michael Elsbernd
Director of Music
ext. 14
melsbernd [at] flcsf [dot] org
Christopher Windle
Assistant Director of Music
ext. 49
cwindle [at] flcsf [dot] org
Christopher Windle
Responsibilities: Duties include serving as director of Jubilant Singers (middle school vocal choir), FLYGHT (high school vocal choir), Good Vibrations (middle school handbell choir), assistant director of the Adult Choir, directing instrumental ensembles, and assisting the Director of Music Michael Elsbernd with worship development.
Background: I grew up in Clarksville, Md. and graduated from St. Olaf College with a Bachelor of Music in church music with a choral emphasis. I love to sing and play the flute. I like to hike, play baseball and chat with whoever stops by my office.
Favorite part of my job: I have enjoyed meeting all of the different people at FLC.
Dr. Jerry Hanson
Director of Music Emeritus
ext. 35
Marcia Kittelson
Organist Emerita
ext. 35
Marcia Kittelson
Responsibilities: Served as church organist and Adult Choir accompanist. Marcia retired June 30, 2009.
Background: I grew up in Aberdeen, S.D. I am married to John and we have two children and four grandchildren. My hobbies include travel, knitting, reading and our new puppy.
Favorite part of my job: Ministering to the FLC congregation through hymns, liturgy and organ literature.
Gerry Kropp
FLYGHT and Jubilant Singers Accompanist
ext. 35
Bonnie Lindgren
Carol Choir Director
ext. 35
Sue Severson
Contemporary Music Coordinator
ext. 35
Pam Sonnichsen
Instrumental Coordinator
ext. 35
Mary Pottratz
Belle Campane and Agape Ringers Director
ext. 35
Mary Pottratz
Responsibilities: Directing Belle Campane (high school handbell choir) and Agape Ringers (adult handbell choir).
Background: I am a native of Sioux Falls and am returning home after spending several years in the Twin Cities. Most recently I served as handbell director at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Apple Valley, Minn. along with other administrative duties. I also taught choral music in various schools and churched throughout the Twin Cities metro area.
I am married to Bob and we have three children—Angie, Diane and Ruthie. In my spare time, I enjoy paper crafts, golf and watching her kids when they are in their element.
Favorite part of my job: First Lutheran is a church with a strong commitment to music. From my first visit, I have felt at home and sensed First Lutheran’s commitment to music as a vital component of worship.
Hazel Wek
Carol Choir/Women’s Choir Accompanist
ext. 35
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