Elders

Meet the Elders of RVCC!

Our elders are faithful leaders who serve with humility, compassion, and a deep love for God's people. They are committed to shepherding our church family by leading small groups, visiting and caring for those who are sick or in need, praying continually for our congregation, and teaching classes that help us grow in faith and understanding.

Each elder brings unique gifts and a heart for ministry, working together to support the spiritual health of our church. They are here to walk alongside you, encourage you in your walk with Christ, and help create a community that reflects His love.

We invite you to get to know our elders and reach out if you need prayer, support, or guidance on your journey with God.

Greg and Tina Katorski

Greg and Tina Katorski have been part of the RVCC family since 2020. They have two adult
children and five grandchildren, and are quickly approaching their 50th wedding anniversary.
Tina enjoys a good cup of coffee, reading encouraging books and meeting new people. She
especially enjoys welcoming the new people at church. Greg prefers a behind the scenes
approach to serving at RVCC, enjoys assisting with Financial Peace University (FPU) and, as a
graduate of FPU and Financial Coach Master Training, encouraging FPU graduates one on one
as they walk out their personal journey to biblical financial peace. Away from church Tina enjoys
gardening and Greg is learning pickleball. Both enjoy walks through Minnesota’s many beautiful
regional and state parks.

Brian and Luann Eager

Brian and Luann Eager have been faithful members of RVCC for over 25 years, serving in various
capacities throughout their time here. Brian is a 2021 graduate of Charis Bible College and has a
heart for short-term mission trips, particularly to Eastern Europe. Luann enjoys contributing her
time and talents by supporting the work of the church office. Together, they exemplify a deep
commitment to service, faith, and the RVCC community.

Wayne and Patty Bredahl

Wayne and Pat Bredahl have been a vital part of the RVCC family for over 13 years. Their
passion for outreach and heart for the lost and broken is evident in everything they do. They
are leaders of our community motorcycle ministry, called Righteous Riders, using it as a unique
and powerful platform to share the love of Christ beyond the church walls. Wayne and Pat also
lead our chemical dependency group, walking alongside individuals in their journey toward
healing and freedom. Their desire is to see lives transformed through the power of the Holy
Spirit. Their ministry reflects the love, grace, and restoration found in Jesus, and we are blessed
to have them as part of our leadership team.

Dennis and Cathy Demar

Dennis and Cathy DeMar have been devoted members of RVCC since 2008. Cathy is a licensed
minister and counselor with a passion for guiding others into the freedom found in Christ.
Dennis oversees the volunteer-run coffee ministry, creating a welcoming environment where
fellowship can flourish. As church elders, they serve with humility, compassion, and a deep love
for our community.

Jason and Renae Justin

Jason and Renae Justin have been a cherished part of the RVCC family since 1999. They are the
proud parents of four children and have a heart for mentoring and encouraging young adults.
Renae loves serving the church by using her creative talents as an interior designer and leads
the women’s breakfast ministry, creating meaningful opportunities for connection and growth.
Jason enjoys teaching Financial Peace University, helping others find freedom through wise
financial stewardship, and also serves faithfully in the sound ministry. Their lives reflect a deep
commitment to faith, family, and service.

Buddy and Susana Shaklee

Buddy and Susana Shaklee have attended River Valley Christian Church since 2000. The
Shaklees raised their family at RVCC – three adult children, all of whom were home educated
through high school. Buddy and Susana have served faithfully in various ministries throughout
the years, including ushering, hosting small groups in their home, and leading RVCC’s youth
ministry for nearly a decade while their children were teens. They both have a passion for
learning, for reading, in-depth Bible study, and teaching. Susana is a graduate of Charis Bible
College and has a heart especially for encouraging and empowering women of all ages to fulfill
their God-given callings. Buddy’s teaching focuses on the Jewish historical contextual
understanding of the Bible so that the church can step more fully into the culture of the
resurrected King.

Mark and Cyndee LaBathe

Mark and Cyndee LaBathe have been a vital part of our church family for several years,
faithfully serving and ministering with hearts full of compassion and dedication. Mark has a
deep passion for evangelism and outreach, with a particular heart for reaching the lost through
street ministry and hands-on evangelistic efforts. His boldness and love for people fuel his
desire to see lives transformed by the Gospel. Cyndee brings a rich background in healing,
deliverance and carries a strong burden for intercessory prayer. She is passionate about
equipping believers to walk in their God-given authority and loves to come alongside others in
prayer, offering encouragement, healing, and spiritual insight. Together, Mark and Cyndee
serve with humility and wisdom, beautifully complementing each other’s gifts and callings as
they minister with unity, purpose, and a deep love for God’s people.