In the tapestry of life, some threads shine brighter than others, and the radiant thread of Pastor Don Kretzschmar illuminated the lives of countless individuals. On January 9, 2024, the world lost a man whose journey was marked by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service. As we remember and celebrate the life of Pastor Don, let us reflect on the legacy of a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched.
Early Years and Spiritual Journey
Pastor Don was born on July 30, 1943, in Monroe, Michigan, alongside his twin brother, Robert, to Carl and Bernice Kretzschmar. From the outset, it was evident that Don’s life would be one of purpose and service. He graduated in 1969 from Concordia Seminary St. Louis with a Master of Divinity, setting the stage for a lifelong journey dedicated to spreading the message of love and inclusivity. Don’s early ministry took him to Christ Lutheran Church in Yonkers, NY, where he served as a pastor. It was during this time that he met and married Marni, the love of his life, and welcomed their first daughter, Sarah. As their family grew to include Ellen, Don transitioned into a ministry managing low-income apartment buildings, eventually bringing them to Illinois.
Champion of Inclusion and Care
In 1985, Don began a new chapter in his ministry by becoming the Chaplain to persons developmentally disabled in the Northern Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. Recognizing the importance of his work, Don founded the independent nonprofit, Voice of Care, in 2004. As Founder, Chaplain, and Executive Director, he tirelessly visited residential facilities, providing pastoral care and services, emphasizing the intrinsic value of all individuals in the eyes of God.
Voice of Care, under Don’s guidance, grew to encompass training church workers and lay volunteers, spreading the message of inclusion in congregational life across multiple states. Even after his official retirement in 2013, Don continued to volunteer with Voice of Care as a chaplain, furthering his impact and legacy.
A Special Connection with Walcamp Outdoor Ministries
One of the significant facets of Don’s ministry was his involvement with Walcamp Outdoor Ministries during Handicamp weeks, designed for people with disabilities. His genuine love and enthusiasm for these camps created a haven of joy for campers of all ages.
Whether singing songs, giving tandem bicycle rides, or engaging in delightful activities like squirting shaving foam off a duck nose, Pastor Don became an integral part of the Handicamp experience. His presence was synonymous with love, admiration, and joy, and the words “Pastor Don” echoed in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
