I was born on October 22, 1927, to Arnold W. and Amanda (nee Rabe) Bathje in Oak Park, Illinois. I received my elementary education at Lutheran School in Bellwood and Arlington Heights, Illinois, where my father was teacher, principal, and organist.

I enrolled in Concordia Lutheran High School in 1941 and graduated four years later. In June 1945, I entered Concordia Teacher’s College (now Concordia University) in River Forest, Illinois. During the 1946-47 school year, I interned at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church and School in New York City, serving as teacher of grades 3-5, choir director, and organist. I returned to Concordia and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in June 1949. While at Concordia, I was active in sports (basketball, track and baseball), was Vice-president of the student body for one year, served as a chapel organist, was the organ accompanist for the Cantata Chorus, and was recognized in "Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities". In 1968 I earned a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education and Supervision from the University of Michigan.

Since entering the teaching ministry, I have served the following congregations: Bethany (Chicago, Illinois), and these in Michigan: St. Peter (Eastpointe), St. Peter (Richmond), St. John (Rogers City), Peace (Detroit), and Trinity (Traverse City). Over the years, I have served as teacher, Principal, Director of Music, Director of Adult Education, coach and Sunday School teacher instructor. I have served the Michigan District of the LC-MS as a member of its Board of Directors, the Board of Education, and the School Committee.

On August 10, 1949, I married Lois (nee Fahselt) of Flint, Michigan, who also attended Concordia where we met. Our marriage has been blessed with four sons: David, a pharmacist, who resides here n Traverse City; Steve, a Doctor of Optometry, who practice is in Iron River, Michigan; James, whom the Lord took to heaven after 12 days; and Paul, who was stillborn due to Rh factor complications. We have three grandchildren: Andrew, Jennifer, and Christopher.

Since Lois’ retirement in 1991, we have been spending all or part of the winter months in Florida at the Carefree Country Club in Winter Haven.

In addition to my love of the organ, I enjoy fishing, playing golf, gardening, and solving crossword puzzles.

I am deeply grateful to the Lord for giving me the opportunity to serve His church for so many years. Note: Mr. Bathje celebrated his 60^th year as a Lutheran organ in March 2006.