Jeffrey J. Ott, Pastor

Pastor Jeff was raised in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. In his "former life," he worked in accounting and computers. After his mother's death in 1990, he spent several years reexamining many aspects of his life. Ultimately, this led to his entering seminary in 1995. He received his Master of Divinity degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) on June 7, 1998.

 

He began his ministry here at First Presbyterian a week later, on June 15, 1998. He enjoys teaching and preaching, and believes that he has found a home here in South Lyon.

 

One of his greatest joys, since arriving here in South Lyon, was meeting his wife, Joan. They were married in our church on April 27, 2002. Joan has been a wonderful addition to our church family, and many would tell you that Pastor Jeff is a whole lot happier since he met her J.   Pastor Jeff also has a daughter, Tiffany, married to Tom, who is beginning her internship at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. 

 

When he's not involved in ministry, or spending time with family, you might find Pastor Jeff scuba diving in one of the local lakes, on the wrecks in Lake Huron, or half-way around the world. Diving has truly become a passion of his − just ask him.

Kathy Schultz, Church & Financial Secretary

Kathy has been running the church office since 1990 - a lot longer than she could ever have imagined - and yet now she can't imagine not being here. This mother of grown children is now enjoying her two small grandsons, calling it a great reward for raising her children.

 

When not involved at the church, either at work or with other activities, she enjoys going to garage sales with her husband, collecting cookbooks, music, and reading.

Robert W. Sopo, Music Director / Organist

Originally from London, Ontario, Robert W. Sopo started playing the piano at age 4.  He won his first music scholarship competition at age 6, and some 12 years later earned a degree in music from the Western Ontario Conservatory of Music, London, Ontario, with a major in keyboard performance and a minor in pedagogy.  His piano and organ teachers have included Howard Munn, Antonio Mazan and Barrie Cabena.

 

Rob’s experience as a Director of Music/Organist in churches spans 30+ years.  He has  directed children, youth and adult choirs, as well as hand bell choirs and small music ensembles.  His live-broadcast Canadian Christmas Eve Cantata service with a combined mass choir from several churches was a feature on a London, Ontario radio station for years at Christmas time.   

Currently, Rob is pleased to be the Director of Music and Organist at First Presbyterian Church in South Lyon, Michigan where he plays, directs the Chancel Choir and the Celebration Ringers, and works with community and church soloists and musical groups.  One highlight of his tenure at First Presbyterian was the dedication of a new 3-manual Allen Quantum Digital pipe organ in late 2005..  The dedicatory recital was performed by English concert organist Carlo Curley.

 

In addition to his musical activities, Rob has an active consulting practice as an Industrial-Organizational psychologist.  He resides in South Lyon, Michigan with his wife, Deb, who is a pharmacist and health care executive.

Robert Weinburger, Treasurer

Bob has been a member her for many, many years, and has given his service as Treasurer for about the last nine.  He and his wife Nancy love to travel and are great gardeners.