Jeff Bakken was born and raised in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and later settled with his family in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. He has a heart for hospitality, service, and walking alongside people wherever life meets faith.
Jeff has been married to his wife Robyn for 36 years, and together they have built a family rooted in love, grace, and caring for others. Their youngest daughter, Carly Rae, is an elementary school teacher, while Tess is currently studying to become a Registered Nurse. Their oldest son, TJ, serves as a Police Officer alongside his wife Holly, who is an RN. Jeff and Robyn are also proud grandparents to Kora, Solvie, and little Bo, who keep life joyful, busy, and full of laughter.
Jeff is currently completing his Master of Arts in Diaconal Ministry through Wartburg Seminary and preparing for ministry within the ELCA. His passion for ministry centers on hospitality, outreach, encouragement, and helping people see that the church is not just a building on Sunday morning, but a community called to serve the world.
For many years, Jeff has served at Covenant Harbor in Lake Geneva, where relationships, listening, and welcoming others have deeply shaped his understanding of ministry and faith. He believes some of the holiest moments happen in everyday conversations, shared meals, hospital visits, campfires, and simply showing up for people.
Outside of ministry, Jeff loves golf, cheering on University of North Dakota sports, spending time with family, and proudly “bleeding purple” for the Minnesota Vikings.
Jeff is grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside the people of Bethel Lutheran and looks forward to building relationships, sharing life together, and discovering where God is already at work in the Windsor community.
