Staff

Pastor Paul Ritter

Paul was born in Rockford, IL in 1994. He graduated from Harlem High School in 2013, Martin Luther College in 2019, then Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2023. After graduating from the seminary, he received his assignment to serve as the pastor of Crown of Life.

Paul is married to Amelia, and they are expecting a son in late April.

In his free time, Paul loves woodworking, powerlifting, and sleeping.

Mr. Chris Holman

Principal

Lower Grades Teacher

Chris was born in Rapid City, SD in 1979 and grew up in Citrus Heights, CA. He graduated from Bellas Vista High School in 1998 and from Martin Luther College in 2003. He was assigned to Martin Luther School (former name of Crown of Life School) to teach grades 1-4. In 2012, Chris began teaching K-4. In the summer of 2013, he became principal. With the completion of our new school building, Chris as been re-called to serve as our principal and lower grades teacher.

Chris is married to his wife, Cristina, and they have been blessed with three beautiful daughters, Ella, Addyson, and Camryn.

When not at school, Chris loves sports. Whether watching, playing, or coaching, he loves them all! He also loves to play golf (when the weather permits).

Mr. Matthew Speidel

Upper Grades Teacher

Matt was born in Minneapolis, MN in 1980, and grew up in Apple Valley, MN. He graduated from St. Croix Lutheran High School in 1999 and went to work in the grocery industry. After many years in the retail industry, he returned to college and graduated from Martin Luther College in 2024 with a degree in elementary and secondary education. Matthew was assigned to Crown of Life Lutheran School to teach grades 5-8 and to participate in the principal training program through the synod.

When not busy at school, Matt likes spend time outdoors hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring. He is also a sports fan and enjoys watching most sports, especially hockey, football, and baseball. Matt is also an avid pilot and enjoys flying around and seeing the countryside.

Mrs. Michelle Rabideau

Preschool Director/Teacher

Michelle was born in Zilwaukee, Mi. in 1964. She is a 1982 graduate of Michigan Lutheran Seminary.

She started a preschool at Cross of Glory, Washington, Mi. in 1995 and after many years of teaching took a break. Spring of 2024 brought a divine call from Crown of Life Lutheran Church and School and she happily accepted.

In her free time Michelle enjoys spending time with her children, grandchildren and her family.

Mrs. Linda DeRuiter

Art

Linda was the original preschool teacher at Crown of Life (formerly Martin Luther School) back in 1977! She served faithfully for 30+ years until 2011.

In retirement she still has a heart for children and a continued love for art. She teaches art class on Friday afternoons to all grades. You can find the students artwork displayed in the halls throughout the year.

Mrs. Lynne Cameron

Office Administrator