Senior Pastor Paul Youngdahl of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Southwest Minneapolis died Monday.
"He will be remembered as one of Mount Olivet's greatest treasures for his leadership, his commitment and service to God's family, and for his never-ending love of the Lord," said a statement posted on the church's website. "We will miss him dearly and extend our condolences to you, his beloved church family."
Funeral arrangements are being worked out.
Youngdahl was a graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College and the Lutheran School of Theology in Rock Island, Ill. He was ordained by Mount Olivet in 1963, then served at churches in New Orleans and St. Paul before returning to Mount Olivet in 1968. He assumed the senior pastor position in 1974.
He travelled extensively throughout the world, including trips to Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East. Youngdahl served on numerous boards and committees throughout his career. He also gave the opening prayer at the U.S.Senate and met with two sitting presidents.
