Raised in a loving Christian family, Mark is the oldest of four children and Mark spent parts of his childhood in Ohio, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and New York. He moved to Minnesota to attend Augsburg College in Minneapolis and spent the next 40 years in the Twin Cities area. Following graduation, Mark became an insurance agent with Cigna and had a 32 year career in sales and management with them.
Mark and Debbie have three children and two grandchildren: Andy and his wife Danielle live in Breckenridge, CO; John and his wife Ilana and their children Abby and Lucy are here in Truckee; and, Rachel resides in Denver. They love the beautiful scenery, the less harsh climate, the outdoor activities, and the Truckee people! But most importantly, they love being just a short walk from their son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.
Mark comes from a long line of Lutherans. His great-grandfather and grandfather were Lutheran Pastors. His paternal great-grandfather was a Lutheran Pastor and his grandfather was a prominent Lutheran musician who conducted the Lutheran Hour Radio Chorus, the Concordia Seminary Chorus, and the St. Louis Bach Chorus. Debbie and Mark were married at Mark’s uncle’s church in Minneapolis, Mark’s grandfather officiated, and Mark’s cousin gave the sermon!
Mark loves spending time with family. He also enjoys being outdoors in God’s creation skiing, biking, hiking, and spending time at the beach. Mark and Debbie were active in their church and community in Minnesota, serving as Sunday School teachers, confirmation guides, and hunger relief volunteers. Mark coached many youth hockey, baseball, and soccer teams. Since moving to Truckee, Mark has become a regular volunteer at Sierra Community House – Hunger Relief, currently serves on TLPC’s Council, and has helped organize TLPC’s “God’s Work. Our Hands Day.”
Mark and Debbie looked at many churches when they moved to Truckee, and TLPC “felt like home.” Mark appreciates “the spirit and commitment to service among our members.” He is excited about the opportunity to work as Church Administrator at TLPC to help grow our church as a part of God’s Kingdom. Mark wants to thank all of you at TLPC!
