Ministry Leaders
DAVE KOPPEL
Head Pastor
I love being a pastor! I've been married to Andrea for forty two years and we have three terrific daughters who live all over the country from Colorado to Atlanta to Pflugerville. They light up my life!
I’ve pastored throughout the United States and have degrees from the university of Connecticut, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Hartford seminary, and Asbury seminary. I truly believe that I have the best job in the world. I get to share the love of Jesus with people. and we have an amazing congregation of gifted intelligent people who live out their faith and make a huge difference in our community. I thank God every day for our congregation and staff.
Some of my favorite things to do. Include going to Round Rock Express baseball games with friends, watching Steelers football, spending time with my family, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.
LAX VARDHANAPU
Intern Pastor
MIN WOO LEE
Korean Ministry Pastor
I was born in South Korea, and I received the precious gifts of love and purpose through marriage to Hye Won Shin, and the arrival of our daughter (Rachel) and son (John) as blessings.
My academic journey led me to graduate from Missions from Acts University in South Korea and earn a degree from the Graduate School of Chongshin University. Furthering my studies in the United States, I pursued a Master of Divinity (Mdiv.) at Biblical Theological Seminary(Missio Seminary). I am currently earning my Doctorate in the Ministry program at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
For over two decades, I have faithfully served as a pastor within the Korean community, and I currently serve as the senior pastor at Antioch Church of Austin, extending my ministry to the Korean diaspora. Additionally, I serve as a worship leader at PVLC, contributing to the congregation's spiritual growth.
With a heart dedicated to the Lord and a passion for ministry, I aspire to be a source of joy for the Lord through all ministries that God gives me opportunities in until the glorious return of Jesus Christ.
WILLOW BOCHAT
Youth Ministry Director
LAURIE STRAWBRIDGE
Children's Ministry Director
I grew up in Alabama but have called Texas home since 2007. I have worked in churches in Alabama, Florida, and Texas since 1995. My undergraduate degree is from Alabama and my Masters in Christian Education is from Asbury Seminary. I love ministry and I love kids! Getting to teach them how much God loves them makes me excited to get up and go to work! When I'm not working, I like to relax by binge watching tv or reading a book. My favorite book is the B-I-B-L-E. Did you just sing that in your head? I also love Harry Potter and all of Jane Austen's work. One day I hope to write my own Christian novel or children's book. I also fill my time playing with my grandkids.
Music
BLAKE TARGONSKI
Rejoice! Band Director
I have lived in nine different states while growing up. I was born in Boston, and we moved back and forth from east to west coasts throughout my life. I got my bachelor's degree in business from the University of South Carolina. My wife Caroline and I moved to Texas in 2021 from North Carolina and have loved building our community here in Round Rock! We have a cat named Lorelai and a dog named Luther (our Lutheran roots are clearly important!).
Some people don't know this, but my full time job is actually working as an Outside Sales Rep for Hill Country Electric Supply. I have loved working part time here at Palm Valley as the Co-Music director for the contemporary service. I truly believe that I am closest to God in those "goosebump" moments that music can create, and I love being able to share my gifts with my community so that we can experience some of those moments together.
MARVIN GOAD
Choir Director
I started piano lessons at five years old with my mother as my piano teacher. I continued on with piano and voice throughout my middle school and high school years. I received a Bachelors of Music degree from Texas Tech University and have used it for both teaching school and church work.
I have been on staff at Palm Valley since 1996 where I begin as choir director. In 2022, I began serving as organist for the traditional service. Palm Valley has been a wonderful place to work, worship and find friendship that will continue to carry on.
Operations
JEN KENDRICK
Executive Administrator
MOLLY
Front Desk Reception & Administrative Support
JESSICA BRUNSSEN
Media Production
Born in Boca Raton, FL, but I've lived my whole life in Round Rock, TX until I went up to Iowa State University to study and get my BFA in Graphic Design.
Still live in Round Rock, TX with my family and three (yes three!) dogs.
I have many passions but my main ones are in crafting, reading, watching TV and movies of all genres, and photography.
I've been a member of Palm Valley since I was in High School and, for me, to now be able to help bring the word of God and Palm Valley's message and values into the online world, as well as, working along side such wonderful people, who I not only consider great co-workers but also great friends, is such an amazing opportunity!
VICKI WALL
Publications
My husband, Perry, and I are native Texans having grown up here in the Austin/Round Rock area and proud to still call this home. I was baptized at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Taylor, TX, so my Lutheran roots are well grounded.
For me, one of the highlights of being on staff here at Palm Valley is connecting with members of the community (members of Palm Valley) that I have known for many years, and connecting with and making new friends that share my passion of serving. I am thankful for the opportunity to support the ministries of Palm Valley by being a member of such a great staff.
BRENDA ZINGG
Financial Assistant
I was born and raised in Central Texas and have lived here most of my life. I have four sisters and one brother, and we have always been close to each other.
I met and married the love of my life, Russ, in 1987. Together, we have three sons and have been blessed with four grandchildren.
I previously worked as the administrator of a church here in Round Rock and before that managed a medical office. I feel very blessed to work with such a great group of people here at Palm Valley. I view my work here at Palm Valley not only as my job, but also as my Mission Field.
BILLY SMITH
Grounds Maintenance
JOHN CILLIERS
Building Maintenance