Pastor Bob joined the staff of Good Shepherd in August 2013. He began his ministry life in 2001 as a member of a three-person youth ministry team at Bethel Lutheran Church in Wahpeton and moved into seminary from there. He was ordained in that church and received his call to Prairie Rivers Parish in Wyndmere. Since 2011, Pastor Bob was the lead pastor in that four-point parish. “I thank God for calling me into such a dynamic ministry so far and I am excited for all that He continues to bring into my life,” Pastor Bob stated.

Pastor Bob has three daughters, all grown, and one son, in ninth grade. He and his wife Julie have been married for 27 years. They have a variety of pets, mostly acquired by their daughters. Pastor Bob enjoys riding motorcycle, hunting and fishing, and music of all kinds. “I am a fairly decent singer and am on a journey to teach myself some chords on the guitar. My calling seems to bring me in contact with lots of youth and we seem to get along well. I also feel very comfortable in a worship leadership setting,” Pastor Bob explained.

        My greatest joy in ministry is walking alongside people as we discover again and again that we are all beloved Children of God. My leadership style is relational and grounded in trust, authenticity, and grace. I believe in showing up as my full (sometimes quirky!) self, and I invite others to do the same. Whether we’re worshiping, serving our neighbors, sharing in fellowship, or growing together in faith, I hope to help create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

        I grew up in Mapleton, North Dakota, and was born in Fargo. I graduated from West Fargo High School, then went on to Rita’s Cosmetology College before earning my degree in Theatre with a Writing minor from Minnesota State University Moorhead. God’s call led me from starving artist and hairstylist to the pulpit, and eventually to Luther Seminary, where I followed the Spirit’s lead into pastoral ministry. I’ve been ordained for 15 years and have had the joy of serving in two congregations. My first call was with the faithful people of Sheyenne-Oberon Area Ministry—a four-point rural parish in eastern North Dakota—where I served for eight years. My second call has been with the vibrant and welcoming community at Zion Lutheran Church in Minot, where I’ve served as Associate Pastor.

        My family is a huge part of my life. My husband, Jared, is a self-employed contractor and owner of Kolles Creative Customs. We have three amazing kids: Medora (18), who is taking a gap year before heading to college; Ruby (14), a competitive swimmer who’s excited to start high school; and Elis (12), a middle schooler who loves gaming and all things tech.

        Outside of church, I love a strong cup of coffee and binge-watching medical and first responder TV shows. I also have a deep love for the arts, and when the time is right, I enjoy finding creative outlets to reconnect with that part of myself—whether it's through theatre, creating, or music.

        I look forward to the opportunity of getting to know you, learning your stories, and walking this journey of faith together at Good Shepherd.