Our staff
Pastor Ted Diedrick
Pastor
History
Pastor Ted served as vicar of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (GSLC) from 2008-2009, after which he was called as full-time pastor.
Before his venture into pastoral ministry, Pastor Diedrick was a corn plant breeder at Asgrow Seed Company.
Education
GE: St. Mary's Catholic School
BA: Ohio State University
MA: University of MN - plant breeding
PhD: University of MN - genetics
MDiv: Concordia Seminary, Saint Louis, MO
Family
Pastor Ted has been married to Jennifer since 1982. They have 5 grown children. Pastor Ted loves music—playing several instruments, but, one of his true relaxation passions is gardening! Ted and Jennifer live in Columbus.
Contact
Melanie Appelquist
Director of Christian Education
History
Melanie has been working at Good Shepherd since May of 2018. She serves as the Director of Children and Youth as well as being instrumental in Good Shepherd’s outreach efforts.
Education
B.A. - Concordia University St. Paul, MN
Certification - Director of Christian Education
Family
Melanie and her husband Mark have been married since May 2008. They live in Blaine and have a son, Benjamin, born June 2018.
She loves spending time with her family and crafting!
Contact
Kristy fix
Office Administrator
History
Kristy has been working at Good Shepherd since May 2025. She has been a member of the church since 2001.
Kristy is a former veterinary technician, and self-proclaimed “crazy dog lady”, with a heart for all of God’s creatures.
Education
AAS: Argosy University - Veterinary Technology
Family
Kristy and her husband, Chris, have been married since 2016. They live in Circle Pines, and have a daughter, Nora. Kristy and her family enjoy spending time outdoors enjoying God’s creation.