Death of Kathleen Schluter and Pastor Mike’s Dad

​Dear members and friends of St Peter’s Lutheran Church, Hobart,
 
We give thanks to God for the life and faith of our sister in Christ Kathleen Schluter. Kath was taken from this life last Sunday afternoon, 12th of September at her home in Moonah where her daughter Christine Douglas has provided loving and devoted care for her in recent years. She is also survived by sons Paul, Andrew and Simon. Andrew is in the US while Paul and Andrew have assisted with caring for Kath in recent weeks as Kath neared death. 
 
Kathleen loved her Lord and contributed richly to the life of the Saint Peter’s Congregation. She was president of the Ladies Guild for many years, leading meetings with great skill, gentleness and kindness.  Along with her husband Albert who was also very active in the congregation, they would host Bible studies in their home which are remembered both for the feeding of the soul as well as for the lovely suppers. Among other things Kath also sang in the choir.
 
A private funeral for Kath will be held this Friday with Pastor John Heidenreich officiating. ‘Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints’ (Psalm 116:15).
 
Dad’s death.
I share the following that I prepared for distribution to friends and relatives yesterday.
 
Last Friday, 10th of September, my Father Lance Steicke died. He had secondaries through most of his organs from a melanoma that had grown in his head which was removed about two and a half years ago. I have been in Adelaide since the night of Monday the 6th of Sept, and so was able to spend a few days with Dad as he slipped in and out of consciousness. My siblings Janet, Peter and Liisa have been great, all providing wonderful support to Dad and to one another. We have also worked as a team, along with sister in law Julie, in the quite challenging task of cleaning up the house.

Thankfully Dad didn’t have to linger too long or experience great periods of pain. He approached his death with a strong faith and a positive attitude resulting from his trust in the forgiveness of sins and the sure and certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life found in the loving faithfulness of God as revealed and given in Christ Jesus. This was exhibited when, upon learning from the oncologist that there was nothing more that could be done, he shared: “As I was walking out of the hospital I was singing the words of a hymn ‘I Am coming home, Lord Jesus’. In the bus, it was, 'whether we live or die, WE ARE THE LORDS'."

A Memorial or Thanksgiving service for Dad will take place at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, Blair Athol, SA this Saturday, 18th of Sept at 10.30am. (It will be preceded by a private graveside committal for family only).

Attendance numbers are being managed through TryBooking. Attendees must book. (This does not apply to the 50 invited guests attending the graveside prior to the service; a place at the church is already reserved for you.)

The Memorial service will be live-streamed. The live stream is available here.

I give thanks for my Father and the closure that has occurred through various family events in recent times, including the memorable and joyous time he and so many family members experienced in travelling to Hobart to celebrate my 60th birthday earlier this year. He has run the race and fought the fight, and now receives the crown of life, getting to rest and to bask in joys sublime.

Warm regards and blessings,
 
Pastor Mike Steicke.
Saint Peter's Lutheran Church, Hobart.