Julie Raridan
Senior Pastor
I am delighted that you chose to take a look at what Fremont First United Methodist Church has to offer. We are a vibrant church, offering not just Sunday morning worship. We have mid-week events; youth and children's programs; and various outreach ministries. It is my honor to serve as the senior pastor of this amazing, Christ centered church. I am originally from Northern California. I grew up in the mountains, just a few hours from the majestic Sierra Nevadas. I am a country girl at heart but did spend 20 years in the big city of Sacramento, California. I have three adult children and 6 grandchildren. I am a "down to earth" gal who works hard to be all that God has designed and created me to be. I must admit, He has His hands full because I can be stubborn at times! However, I hope that more often than not I am willing to be molded by our Lord. One of the best qualities of the mid-west (in my humble opinion) is its ability to be kind to all. The hospitality I've experienced throughout the mid-west is above anything I've experienced elsewhere. I hope when you visit our church, you experience our radical hospitality; an abundance of smiles; and a whole lot of God. I look forward to meeting you
~Pastor Julie
~Pastor Julie
Darren Timberlake
Director of Caring Ministries
As Director of Caring Ministries, Darren helps the church live out Christ’s call to care for one another and our neighbors in need. His ministry includes visiting members and others in hospitals, homes, and care facilities; making calls and sending correspondence to check in with older adults and those experiencing difficult or challenging circumstances; and offering compassionate support to individuals and families experiencing grief.
Darren also helps identify and respond to needs within Fremont’s homeless population, working with the Lead Pastor and local organizations to connect people with appropriate support and resources. He also keeps watch for members who have missed worship for an extended time, reaching out with a caring call or communicating their absence to the Lead Pastor. At the heart of his ministry is a simple goal: to help make our church a community where people are noticed, valued, supported, and cared for.
Darren also helps identify and respond to needs within Fremont’s homeless population, working with the Lead Pastor and local organizations to connect people with appropriate support and resources. He also keeps watch for members who have missed worship for an extended time, reaching out with a caring call or communicating their absence to the Lead Pastor. At the heart of his ministry is a simple goal: to help make our church a community where people are noticed, valued, supported, and cared for.
Julie Schwanke
Director of Children's Ministry
Our Director of Children's Ministry has woven her devotion into the very fabric of Fremont First United Methodist Church with over 30 years of dedicated service. A lifelong member of the church, her experiences span from her childhood days in Sunday school to guiding the current generation through their own faith journeys. Her passion for children's ministry and child development is deeply rooted in her commitment to nurturing the seeds of faith in our young ones. When she's not in the church halls, she's cherishing moments with her wonderful children and grandchildren, sharing the joys of faith and family. Alongside her husband Lynn, she exemplifies the warmth and dedication that have become synonymous with her service to our church family.
Janet Todd
Administrative Assistant
As the newest administrative assistant at our church, she may be fresh to the position, but she is certainly no stranger to our congregation. A longstanding member, she is regarded as an institution within our church family, bringing with her a wealth of experience from the banking industry. Her keen eye for detail and exceptional organizational skills ensure the smooth operation of our church’s day-to-day activities. Embracing the concept of hope in every aspect of life, she radiates positivity and love in both her professional role and personal endeavors. Outside the office, she cherishes time spent with her husband Tim, their wonderful son, and their beloved grandchildren, weaving hope into the tapestry of her family's life.
Paula Schneider
Office Manager
Paula Schneider, our esteemed church office manager, has been the cornerstone of our church administration for over 30 years. Known affectionately as the true engine behind our operations, Paula has steadfastly been our rock, blending efficiency with a touch of humor that lights up the office. Her unwavering commitment is often met with lighthearted jests that she's the one who actually runs the place — and not entirely in jest. Serving with a heart full of love and laughter, Paula has shaped the very heartbeat of our church life. When she's not expertly steering our church activities, Paula revels in quality time with her husband Randy, their two daughters, and the joys of doting on her lovely grandchildren, crafting memories that are as cherished as her presence is in our church community.
Tammy Ehrich
Monroe Ministries Coordinator
Tammy Ehrich, our devoted Monroe Ministry Coordinator, has been a beacon of service at our church for over a decade, dedicated to the well-being and enrichment of our cherished senior saints. With a nurturing spirit, Tammy has lovingly prepared and personally delivered weekly meals to our homebound members, ensuring they are nourished both in body and soul. Her talent for organizing engaging excursions—from cultural outings in Omaha to relaxing visits at Master’s Hand, and an array of luncheons and shows—brings joy and a sense of adventure to our seniors' lives. Tammy’s kindness and heartfelt dedication to our elder community are as evident as her enthusiasm in planning these treasured experiences. Beyond her ministry, Tammy finds her greatest joy in the company of her family and the sweet moments shared with her grandchildren, embodying the love and care she extends to every member of our church family.
Sadie Storms
Youth Ministry Coordinator
Sadie Storms, our dynamic Youth Coordinator, has swiftly become an integral part of our ministry through her outstanding ability to connect with and enrich the lives of our young members. Her commitment to teaching and planning vibrant events has breathed new energy into our youth programs. With a dedication to fostering youth development and spiritual growth, Sadie’s passion for investing in our youth is evident and truly heartening. In addition to her role within our church, she brings valuable insights and enthusiasm from her experience as a local elementary school teacher. Away from her professional endeavors, Sadie’s life is further brightened by the companionship of her cats and the love she shares with her husband, Andrew, creating a harmonious balance of service and personal joy.
Mike Ronhovde
Technology Coordinator
Mike Ronhovde’s connection to First Church began at an early age and has continued throughout his life. A lifelong member of the church, Mike has found many ways to serve alongside his wife, Edie, through the years. His involvement in worship began as a member of the Children’s Choir, and music has remained an important part of his life and ministry ever since. Today, he continues that tradition by leading the Praise Band and singing in the Adult Choir.
After retiring from a career as a math teacher, Mike joined the First Church staff in 2025 as Technology Coordinator. His interest and experience with technology had already become an important part of the church’s ministry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mike helped design and engineer the camera, audio, and video systems that allowed First Church to continue sharing worship services through live streaming when gathering in person was difficult.
Today, Mike works behind the scenes to help make worship accessible and engaging for everyone. He oversees the audio and video equipment throughout the church, mixes sound for worship services, prepares the video presentations for Sunday worship, manages the weekly livestream, and maintains the personal PA system that provides hearing assistance.
For Mike, technology is more than equipment—it is another way to help people connect with worship and with one another. He is continually looking for ways to improve the worship experience and is especially interested in helping others discover the joy of serving in this ministry.
Mike welcomes church members who would like to learn more about helping with live streaming, presentation slides, or sound mixing and monitoring. If you have an interest in any of these areas, please contact Mike or the church office.
After retiring from a career as a math teacher, Mike joined the First Church staff in 2025 as Technology Coordinator. His interest and experience with technology had already become an important part of the church’s ministry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mike helped design and engineer the camera, audio, and video systems that allowed First Church to continue sharing worship services through live streaming when gathering in person was difficult.
Today, Mike works behind the scenes to help make worship accessible and engaging for everyone. He oversees the audio and video equipment throughout the church, mixes sound for worship services, prepares the video presentations for Sunday worship, manages the weekly livestream, and maintains the personal PA system that provides hearing assistance.
For Mike, technology is more than equipment—it is another way to help people connect with worship and with one another. He is continually looking for ways to improve the worship experience and is especially interested in helping others discover the joy of serving in this ministry.
Mike welcomes church members who would like to learn more about helping with live streaming, presentation slides, or sound mixing and monitoring. If you have an interest in any of these areas, please contact Mike or the church office.