Pastor Aaron Winkelman
Pr. Aaron Winkelman was born to Richard and Marion (nee Carnes) Winkelman July 11, 1979. He became a child of his heavenly Father through the promise of Christ connected to the water of Holy Baptism on August 19, 1979 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Farmington, Wisconsin with Pastor Richard Pagels officiating.
Aaron grew up in a hardworking, blue collar Christian home where his parents placed a high priority on Christian education and Sunday church attendance. Through these formative experiences and by God’s faithful working through the Gospel, Aaron was kept in the faith and grew in that same faith.
While attending Bethany Lutheran Church and St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Fort Atkinson, WI, God worked through the faithful service of Pastors Mark Zarling and Ethan Steinbrenner to challenge and encourage Aaron to consider the pastoral ministry. Upon graduating from St. Paul’s Lutheran school Aaron attended Luther Preparatory School (97), Martin Luther College (01), and Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary (05).
Upon graduating from the Seminary, God showed Aaron grace upon grace by calling him into the office of Holy Ministry through the assignment committee to serve at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Waupaca, WI. Pastor Winkelman subsequently served at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in La Porte, IN and Bethany Lutheran Church in Fort Atkinson, WI where Pastor Steinbrenner who had confirmed him became his associate.
Pastor Winkelman is married to Laura (nee Oppermann). By her faithful love and companionship as wife and mother, God showers far more blessings on the family than any of us deserve. Her many talents and tireless drive make her not only a tremendous asset but a wonderful partner in ministry. Together they are parents to Ethan, Rebekah, Gabriel, Charis, Alex, Micaiah, Mae, and Nevaeh.
When possible Pastor and Laura enjoy spending their time hiking, traveling, dining out, cooking at home, playing cards, dice, and board games with family and friends, sampling craft beer, and generally being willing or foolish enough to try just about anything once. Pastor is a Wisconsin sports fan and a huge Packers fan (Laura, not so much) and both Laura and Pastor are living room karaoke savants.
Pastor and Laura are thrilled to be a part of the Pilgrim family and eagerly look forward to getting to know each of you!
