Denise Blomquist
Youth Ministry Director
I grew up in Dallas, TX and received my Bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and later my Master’s degree from Lamar University. I taught in public education for 26 years before the Lord called me to full-time youth ministry. I have been married to my amazing husband, Mark, for over 26 years and we have two beautiful grown daughters, Ashlynn and Alicia. When not working, I enjoy spending time on the lake with family and friends.
My passion comes from working with the youth and their families at Palm Valley and the community beyond our walls. The youth inspire me to help them to grow in their faith journey and walk with the Lord each and every day.
Alan Dunn
Executive Administrator
Mickie and I have three children and four grandchildren. We also have our best friend, Andy, a cocker spaniel, that is a joy to care for and love.
I have served ministries since 1981 beginning in the Air Force through 2002. I served a wonderful church in Memphis TN for ten years before arriving at Palm Valley. Prior to becoming part of the Air Force I was a Master Plumber in my Dad’s plumbing company.
Serving as a ministry support person I have the great opportunity to see people passionately serving Christ in their ministries. Supporting members is a wonderfully rewarding experience.
We love discovering the heart of Texas by visiting small towns and locally owned businesses.
Marvin Goad
Director of Choir and Traditional Music
Pastor Dave Koppel
Senior Pastor
Married to Andrea for 35 years, we have three terrific daughters who live all over from Colorado to College Station to Atlanta. They keep me sane and light up my life!
I’ve pastored throughout the United States and have degrees from the University of Connecticut, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Hartford Seminary and Asbury Seminary.
I truly believe that I have the best job in the world. I get to share the love of Jesus with people. And we have an amazing congregation of gifted and talented people who live out their faith and make a huge difference in our community. I thank God every day for our congregation and staff.
My favorite thing to do in the Round Rock/Austin area is to enjoy Round Rock Express games with friends.
Laurie Strawbridge
Children's Ministry Director
I grew up in Atmore, AL where I lived for 18 years before going to school at the University of Alabama. But now when I go "home" for Christmas it is to Santa Rosa Beach, FL where my Mom and Dad, sister, brother-in-law, and two nieces live. My brother still lives in Atmore along with many Strawbridge aunts, uncles, and cousins. the McGougan side of my family is spread all over. I moved to Austin, Texas ten years ago and became the guardian for two teenagers, Zack and Arian, for five years and consider them part of my forever family.
After studying Human Development in college I worked briefly in a nursing home before hearing the call to ministry in 1995. After serving my home church as a program director I got my masters in Christian Education at Asbury Seminary in Kentucky and served as a youth director in Methodist churches in Pensacola, Panama City, and Austin. God has given me a love for writing curriculum for children and I feel so blessed to be at Palm Valley Lutheran. My favorite part of my job at Palm Valley is Sunday mornings and Wednesdayevenings when I get to spend time with the children. I love watching them discover how much God loves them. When I'm not at work I'm usually at home with my dog, Bama, watching tv or reading a book. If we're lucky we get to watch an Alabama Football game and cheer from the sofa.
Vicki Wall
Publications
My husband, Perry, and I are native Texans having grown up here in the Austin/Round Rock area and proud to still call this home.
I was baptized at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Taylor, TX, so my Lutheran roots are well grounded.
We are active members of Grace Lutheran Church in Round Rock, which has been our church home for over 30 years.
My background includes Marketing, Sales Support, Office Management, Human Resources, Facility Management, Accounts Payable/Receivable, and Customer Service.
If asked what my passion is, my response would be "to serve."
For me, one of the highlights of being on staff here at Palm Valley has been reconnecting with members of the community that I have known for many years, and connecting with and making new friends that share my passion of serving.
I am thankful for the opportunity to support the ministries of Palm Valley by being a member of such a great staff.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my 6-year old Goddaughter, travelling, painting, writing, going for walks, gardening and serving through the many ministries at church.
Brenda Zingg
Financial Assistant
I was born and raised in Central Texas and have lived here most of my life, except for a few months when I lived in Idaho as a child. My dad, who was a Baptist preacher, passed away in 1991 and my mother just celebrated her 81st birthday this year. I have four sisters and one brother and we have always been close to each other.
I married the love of my life, Russ Zingg, 30 years ago and also gained two sons. A couple of years after our marriage, we were blessed with our son, Michael, and our family continues to grow. We have three grandchildren who live in another state so we do not get to see them often. Our son Michael
I previously worked at as the administrator of a church here in Round Rock and before that managed a medical office. I feel very blessed to work with such a great group of people here at Palm Valley.