Les Altermatt recently closed the book on one career and is about to reenter another one.
The congregation at Lakeview Community Church, 10023 South State Road, Goodrich, will be the beneficiaries of that career change. Altermatt and wife Lucia recently made the move from California when he accepted the pastor’s position at Lakeview.
Altermatt had just retired from a teaching job at Sunnyside Elementary School in Strathmore, Calf., and was finishing a doctorate program when the Goodrich job became available.
‘I felt called to go back in the ministry,? he said. ‘There were a lot of churches we applied to. We were pretty much open to going anywhere.?
Altermatt first started preaching at a church in Chico, Calif., in 1973, and has taught and pastored ‘on and off? for about 30 years.
He contrasted working with adults and with children by saying both basically have the same problems, although adults? problems are on a ‘more mature level.?
‘I’ve reached a point in my career where I enjoy working with adults a little more, but I enjoy working with kids,? he said.
Altermatt said Lakeview has a lot to offer their congregation.
‘I think the church is becoming a family, a place where people can feel welcome,? Altermatt said. ‘I think it has great potential to grow and expand, and reach out to the community.?
Altermatt said Goodrich is a ‘very welcoming, very pleasant? community, adding he prefers a rural lifestyle as opposed to moving to a large city.
The Altermatts have three sons , Jimmy, Kevin, and Adam, as well as two daughters April and Jennifer and five grandchilren.
In his spare time, Altermatt said he has several hobbies: fishing, hunting, auto restoration, model airplanes, flying, gardening, hiking, and camping.