Faculty Retiring in 2023
Professor Douglas Lange NWC ’77, WLS ’82 served as a coach and professor of physical education at MLC from 2005 to 2023. Prior to his ministry here, he served as dean of students, religion teacher, and coach at St. Croix LHS (1995-2005); dean of students, religion teacher, and coach at Arizona Lutheran Academy (1987- 1995), and pastor at Faith-Russellville AR (1982-1987).
Professor Greg Holzhueter, a former student and later a colleague of Professor Lange, appreciated his coach’s skill, passion, and faith:
“I had the privilege of being Coach Lange’s starting quarterback on
the MLC football team for four years, his student in PE/theology classes, and his colleague for the last seven years. “What first struck me was Coach Lange’s ability to instill confidence in those he led. As a first-year, I could tell that he believed in me more than I believed in myself, and his confidence carried me during a time of transition. This ability to encourage was a gift of Coach’s ministry to myself and many others.
“Another aspect of Coach Lange’s ministry that jumped out to me was his passion. There was never a doubt that he loved the ministry he was doing, whether it was coaching, teaching, or preaching.
“Finally, and most importantly, Coach Lange simply modeled what it was to be a man of faith. Twelve to fifteen years later, I can still remember much of what he said during team devotions and theology classes. He modeled how to humbly own one’s sinfulness and how to find comfort in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He showed us how to live gospel ministry instead of simply showing us how to do gospel ministry. I am eternally grateful to Coach Lange for that.”
Professor Emeritus Lange plans to help manage a Northwoods resort and continue to be a “fisherman” for Jesus as well as becoming a better fisherman.
His last message for MLC students:
“You have the awesome privilege of serving God by serving others with your life’s calling. What more could you ask of life?”
Professor Joyce Schubkegel retired late last summer.
Read her tribute in the Fall 2022 InFocus.
Professor Ronald Ohm DMLC ’78 served as a professor of education and student teacher supervisor at MLC from 2002 to 2023. Prior to his ministry here, he served as vice principal and teacher at Minnesota Valley LHS (1997-2002), principal and teacher at St. John-Sleepy Eye MN (1989-1997), and minister of music and teacher at Emanuel (now Crown of Life)-West St. Paul MN (1978-1989).
Dr. Cindy Whaley, a longtime colleague of Professor Ohm in the Education Office, notes Ron’s impact on middle school and high school teachers across the synod:
“From 2002 to 2023, Ron Ohm led the secondary education program in teaching courses and supervising student teachers. With a servant’s heart, academic prowess, and excellent supervisory practices, Ron molded middle and secondary education teachers into effective teacher-ministers who are now educating students across the synod. Ron’s utmost care, concern, and specific feedback, which he crafted carefully for each student teacher, will forever be etched in their minds.
“It would be hard to estimate the number of miles Ron traveled to supervise his student teachers over the years, never complaining but always sharing how God’s angels kept him safe through inclement weather on his way to another school or back to Carlotta and his children.
“For over two decades, many of us knew Ron’s serious side, but he also displayed a humorous side. He purposefully incorporated a joke or funny story into every class and then would share it in the Education Office after teaching. His students and colleagues wholeheartedly looked forward to and enjoyed his humor.
“It’s a joy and privilege to have served with and learned from such a humble, excellent servant-leader, professor, colleague, and friend. God bless Ron and Carlotta in their busy years of retirement!”
Professor Emeritus Ohm plans to offer his services as a substitute teacher, to stay involved with volleyball officiating as long as he can, and to enjoy traveling with his wife, Carlotta, to visit family.
His advice for MLC students:
“Remember that ministry will be time-consuming, messy, rewarding, frustrating, and always about others. Ministry is taking care of God’s people, in all sorts of settings, with the knowledge that you don’t and can’t do it alone. Ministry is a team effort with other people and with your God. Pray for wisdom, patience, perseverance, and an unselfish heart to carry out your callings faithfully.”
