Former CLS president called to glory

Rev. Dr. L. Dean Hempelmann, former President of Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS)

EDMONTON - Rev. Dr. L. Dean Hempelmann, former President of Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS) in Edmonton, has been called home to glory. Dr. Hemplemann entered into the presence of His Saviour on August 29, 2021. He was 82 years old.

“Dr. Hempelmann was an astute theologian, a strong administrator, and a wise churchman and leader,” said Concordia Lutheran Seminary. “We thank God for him and his influence here and throughout Lutheranism. May God provide the sure and certain hope of the Resurrection and the Life to all who grieve his earthly passing.”

Dr. Hempelman was ordained in 1966, and served two parishes in Washington and Oregon over the next twelve years. From there, he moved to Concordia Seminary (St. Louis, Missouri) to become Director of Admissions in 1978. He served the St. Louis seminary as a professor, dean, and eventually as acting president.

In 1993, Dr. Hempelmann was called to serve as the third president of Concordia Lutheran Seminary in Edmonton. During his tenure, Dr. Hempelmann led the seminary to accreditation in the Association of Theological Schools.

In 1999, he returned to St. Louis, Missouri to serve The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) as Director of Pastoral Education. In 2005, he became Executive Director of the LCMS’ Board for Pastoral Education.

Dr. Hempelmann was preceded in death by an infant son (Michael Allen). He is survived by his wife Cathy and children Michael (Melanie), Cheryl (John), and Lisa (James), as well as eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

A public memorial service for Dr. Hemeplman will be held in Georgetown, Texas on September 29, 2021. Memorials in Canada may be given to “The Dean and Cathy Hempelmann Endowment Fund” at Concordia Lutheran Seminary.