Pete Elgersma
Director of Administration and Outreach
Introduction
Pete and Sue Elgersma moved to Port Charlotte, Florida from Rockford, Michigan in April of 2000.
Pete assumed the responsibilities of Director of Administration and Outreach in March of 2010.
I was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and lived in the West Michigan area until Sue and I moved to Florida the first time in 1989.
I have an older brother, Henry and his wife Sue, living in Phoenix, Arizona, I am the second born, then I have a sister, Marcy and her husband Bob, living in Rockford, Michigan, and finally a brother, David and his wife Tracy, living in Dalas, Texas. My parents, Hank and Cleo Elgersma, live in Cape Coral, Florida, and Sue's parents, Don and Ruth Botts, live here in Port Charlotte and attend this church as well.
When and how did you come to know Christ?
My parents tell me that I asked Jesus into my heart at the early age of four. I do not remember that time, but I do recall very well the decision I made when I was seven.
We had been to evening church at Baldwin Heights Baptist Church in Jenison, Michigan, where the pastor had preached one of those "hellfire and brimstone" messages. When I got home I remember telling my Mom that I didn't want to go to hell. She reminded me that I had asked Jesus in my heart before, but, if I didn't remember we could do it again. I vividly remember kneeling beside their bed and asking Jesus to be my savior, and feeling a great weight or burden being lifted. "Now I know" I said, when we were done.
What was the first job you ever had?
My first job lasted one day. I had gotten a job at a cafeteria as a busboy, but when I arrived for work the next night, I was told I was going to be their pan-washer. One day.
Where did you go to college?
I started college right out of high school, but had to stop attending in 1980 just before our daughter was born. I was able to start back again, part-time, in 1992, and completed my degree in December of 1999, from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan. My degree is a B.S. in Health Sciences and Business.
When and to whom did you get married?
I married my church sweetheart, Sue Botts, on March 17, 1978. (St. Patrick's Day, better not forget that one!)
How many children do you have?
Our oldest is Amanda Elgersma, a reading teacher at Punta Gorda Middle School. Next is Drew, married to Jasmine (Mize) with their daughter Audrey. Drew is currently enrolled at Midwestern Seminary and Jasmine is a RN. Our youngest is Tyler, married to Rachel (Taylor) with their son Landon. Tyler completed his tour in the Marine Corps in August 2010 and is attending Edison College furthering his education in Computer Software Engineering, and Rachel works at a day-care in North Port.
What do you like best about your job?
My job consists of making sure the budget is followed, dealing with equipment and building issues, trying to find ways to save the church money, etc. But I also see my job as doing all that I can to help everyone else do the best at their job. That part is rewarding.
What's your favorite Bible verse?
Matthew 25:21a
What do you like to do with your free time?
Computer stuff.
Is there something about you that people would be surprised to learn?
I like M&M's Peanut...wait, I'm not sure that's a secret.