Mary Gehne

Mary Gehne
Creative Writing/Library
mgehne@trinityracine.com

Mary Gehne loves words . . . their sound, what they say, and how they come together to tell a story. It is no surprise that she has developed an enrichment program for Trinity’s elementary students, teaching creative writing to our first through fourth graders. Mrs. Gehne also enjoys co-coaching Trinity’s Battle of the Books teams in the Racine Public Library’s countywide reading challenge.

Mary grew up in a large family with a strong tradition in Lutheran ministry and education. She graduated from Valparaiso University (VU) in 1988 with a degree in Communication. For two years Mary enjoyed traveling and representing VU as an admissions counselor. Continuing her schooling, Mary earned a second degree in Elementary Education from UW-Madison in 1992.

Mrs. Gehne has often combined ministry, teaching, and travel.  She studied overseas in Reutlingen, Germany; taught grade school in St. Petersburg, Russia; and served as a short- term missionary in Saskatchewan and in Guatemala.

Mary met her husband, David, at VU.  They have enjoyed traveling through life together, living in Madison, Russia, England, and St. Louis.  Since 2004 they have been delighted to call Racine home.  Together they embrace the ongoing adventure of life with their three grown sons.

Reading and hiking are favorite pastimes for Mary. She also enjoys camping, as long as David tends the campfire and chases away the bears (true story!).

Mary is guided by Colossians 2:6-7. 

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.