Grace Staff & Leadership
Meet the Team at Grace Chapel
Pastor
Pastor: Kevin Gerdt
Kevin and his wife Julie have lived in Valparaiso and been part of Grace since 2001. In 2011 Kevin became pastor while continuing at Wesley Seminary in Marion, Indiana to complete his Master’s of Divinity degree. Julie serves with Kevin and they have three beautiful girls- Ari, Emma, and Becca.
Elders
Steve Reuter
Steve met his wife Wanda in 1971 while attending Valparaiso University. They attended Grace Chapel where Steve has served as deacon, worship leader, youth leader, associate pastor, and elder. Wanda has served with Steve and in children’s ministry. The Lord has blessed them with four children and five grandchildren.
Rik Ihssen
Rik has been a member of Grace since 1974 when he was a student at Valparaiso University. He met his wife Sue (also a VU student) at Grace and they were married in 1976. Son Eric came along in 1991. Rik has served as a worship and youth leader and with the jail ministry throughout the years. He became an elder in 1988. His “other” job is as principal at Washington Township Elementary School since 1985.
Dan Balentine
Dan and his wife Sue have been members of Grace since 1975 where he has served as a deacon. Dan has been a Millwright at Arcellor Mittal since 1975. The Balentines have been married for 40 years and have 2 children and 6 grandchildren.
