Pastor’s Life Cut Short In Skating Tragedy
Greg Garmer, a beloved retired pastor from Minnesota, tragically passed away after an ice skating outing on Sunday. His body was discovered the following day, after he had fallen through the ice near Woodstock Bay. Garmer, 78, had been reported missing by his wife when he didn’t return home from his ice skating trip. He was an active member of the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Duluth, where he had served the community with dedication for many years.
Garmer was remembered fondly by his colleagues and community members. Reverend David Carlson, the pastor at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, described Garmer as a forward-thinking and deeply faithful individual. He was involved in various ministry activities, including outreach efforts for marginalized people and discussions on topics like racial justice. Carlson emphasized Garmer’s passion for engaging with important issues and contributing to the church’s growth, whether it was helping install solar panels or supporting local charities.
On the Sunday before his death, Garmer had participated in the church service by reading Scriptures for the first Sunday of Advent. His chosen passage, from 1 Thessalonians, reflected his strong spiritual connection and his prayer for the well-being and growth of the congregation. His participation in church life was characterized by his deep faith, empathy, and commitment to living out Christian values.
In addition to his ministry, Garmer was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed cross-country skiing, often being the first and last to ski each season. He was well-known for his energy and enthusiasm, which extended into his personal life as well as his work with Lutheran Social Services and other local organizations. His dedication to serving others and his active lifestyle made him a cherished member of the community.
A memorial service for Greg Garmer will be held on December 28 at First Lutheran Church in Duluth, with visitations beginning an hour before the service. His loss is deeply felt by his church, friends, and family, who remember him for his selflessness, dedication to faith, and tireless service to others.