The Schroeder-Tjostelson Family Endowed Scholarship Fund at Luther Seminary

Herman and Esther were married in 1966, in Fergus Falls and then moved to Duluth, Minnesota. Herman was born on July 23, 1930, to John and Johanna Schroeder, who emigrated from Germany. He grew up on a farm near Evansville, Minnesota. His family consisted of ten brothers and one sister. He attended grade school for eight years and then attended high school and graduated from Morris, Minnesota, which is a part of the University of Minnesota. He started working for Litton Industries in 1963, where he was an electrical specialist (Government employee). When the plant closed and moved to California, Herman stayed in Duluth and started working for Larry’s Radio and TV in 1971, and then retired in 1992. He was an active member of Gideon’s International, Sons of Norway, and served on boards for the local Lutheran Brotherhood (aka Thrivent), Lake Superior College Fund, Lutheran Seminary, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Church Property Board, and Friday morning bible study group. Herman enjoyed fixing and repairing things. He was a man of service, always helping neighbors and friends, and always with a smile. He had a passion for woodworking and several of his tokens can be found throughout his house and at church. Herman was diagnosed with cancer in 1991. He survived 22 years and passed away on August 20, 2012, at the age of 82.

Esther served as St. Ann’s Home in Duluth, Minnesota as an accountant/administrator for 25 years and as a financial consultant to a number of residents. She has held many leadership roles at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, including the church council, Foundation Finance Chair, a separate 501c(3), and other finance related positions. She served as Lutheran Brotherhood Fraternal Group Secretary in Duluth form many years. Esther is active in the Duluth Lions Club and is a gracious host and neighbor. She grew up in North Dakota and has three brothers.

As devoted and generous friends of Luther Seminary, they recognized that Luther Seminary would have a significant and positive effect on the future ministry of the church and it was their hope that this Fund would help reduce the financial burdens of students preparing for ministry.