Thomas ZarlingOn December 23, 2024, Professor Emeritus Thomas Zarling found eternal rest in his Savior’s arms. A 1965 graduate of Northwestern Lutheran College, Tom completed his pastoral training at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 1969. His first call was to Lincoln Heights Lutheran Church in Des Moines, Iowa (1969-74). The Lord led him to Brookings, South Dakota, where he served Our Savior Lutheran Church and was the campus pastor at South Dakota State University (1974-80). Tom then served Dr. Martin Luther College as dean of students (1980-88). During his time on campus, he also coached football, taught religion classes, and served as campus pastor. In 1988, he returned to parish ministry, planting Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Sterling, Virginia, and supporting several other mission churches in the Mid-Atlantic region until his retirement in 2013. Over the years, Tom filled many leadership roles, including first vice president of the North Atlantic District, second vice president of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, and chairman of the synod’s Board for Parish Services. In retirement, he assisted congregations in Arizona and California. Tom was passionate about encouraging lay people to use their God-given talents to personally testify, spiritually guide, and actively assimilate those around them to know Jesus as their Savior and King. His zeal for the Lord and 44 years of faithful service were shining examples for all who knew him. The full obituary can be found here.