Grace Lutheran Church mourns passing of beloved pastor

GREENWOOD LAKE — The parishioners at Grace Lutheran Church are mourning the passing of their beloved Pastor Jack Traugott. As news of his passing on March 2 spread to the members of the church, the community came together to grieve for the man who had become so loved and important to them.

Pastor Jack began his service at Grace in 1996. He had been retired from the ministry after serving for 40 years in the Bronx and in Pleasantville. However, retirement didn't sit well for this energetic and giving soul, according to a release from the church.

When the members of Grace were looking for a new pastor, there was not a doubt who would be chosen after they met Pastor Jack.

Kind, dedicated, faithful and fun-loving are just a few of the ways he will be remembered, said Ann Marie Vitoulis, a parishioner.

"He was the one to turn to for a comforting word, a bear hug, sage advice or a good laugh. He was an amazing story-teller and meaningful sermonizer," she said.

His dedication to the church was tireless. Even as he aged, he made the hour-long drive from his home in South Salem to Greenwood Lake for Sunday services, Christmas Eve, Holy Week, weddings, baptisms, funerals. He made the trip to attend meetings and fund-raising events, Vacation Bible School and to visit the sick. And he didn't just attend to the congregation; he was there for their family members and the community.

Pastor Jack loved children and they loved him, according to the release. "His youthful enthusiasm and kindness made them feel comfortable with him, whether it was during a lesson or singing children's songs. He was a frequent visitor to the children of Little Buddies Pre-School, located at the church. The number of children he baptized, confirmed and communed is innumerable."

Pastor Jack loved sharing his faith. No one could match his passion as he bellowed "Christ is Risen!" every Easter or how he would share the peace at every service with each and every one in attendance. Some of his favorite things to do were his annual "blessing" events. He blessed the bikes, the fleet and the fire engines. His congregation considered him a blessing to all who knew him and say his legacy will live on for years to come

"Amazing how many lives he touched," Sue Toscano, Grace's council president, said. "Forever grateful that he decided to come out of retirement and spend the last 20 years with all of us at Grace."

A funeral and tribute to Pastor Jack was held on March 7 in his hometown for his family and loved ones. Many members of Grace were in attendance.

At this time, Grace Lutheran Church is planning a special memorial service, the date to be announced soon.

Donations to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church may be made in memory of Pastor Jack Traugott and sent to PO Box 394, Greenwood Lake, NY 10925.

For more information, visit www.gracegwl.com or visit on Facebook at GWL Grace Lutheran Church.