March 29, 2024

Pastor Marzolf retires after 15 years at Newton church

The First United Methodist Church’s pastor Gary Marzolf is retiring after 15 years in Newton.

Marzolf has been a pastor at the church in Newton for the past 15 years but that is just a fraction of the time in his 42-year career.

“Well, I felt God calling me to do it, so I would say God chose me,” Marzolf said of why he became a pastor.

Marzolf has an impressive resume when it comes to being a pastor. He has officiated more than 105 weddings, 119 baptisms and 467 funeral services. It is safe to say Marzolf has been a integral part in people’s lives through some of the happiest and saddest moments.

“It is what led me into parish ministry, the fact that you can be a part of so many people’s lives on so many different levels,” Marzolf said.

Being a part of that many lives leaves an impact on those he touches. Through many projects during his time as a pastor, he has tried to touch as many people’s lives as he can.

One thing that Marzolf remembers the most is the Kingdom Assignment. It was where people received $100 to use to further God’s kingdom.

“I told them to go out and use that money in a way that would further God’s kingdom,” Marzolf said.

One of Marzolf’s favorite things from his time in Newton has been the people.

“Just anything that has to do with people, this church has got a very strong mission mind, and they really want to be involved in the community,” Marzolf said.

The amount of work the church does within the community has also been a highlight for Marzolf through his time in Newton.

“The impact that they (First United Methodist Church) have had on the lives of people and being able to be a part of that with them has been exciting,” Marzolf said.

Marzolf has enjoyed his time with the First United Methodist Church, and the people of Newton.

“I will miss a lot of the people ... Just being with the people,” Marzolf said.

Being a pastor comes with unique connections to congregants since he became a part of their lives and the Newton residents who have attended First United church have done the same.

“The friendships that we have made, the way that they let you come and be a part of their life, and they want to be a part of yours,” Marzolf said.

Marzolf does have some plans of what he will do with his time in retirement. He plans on still being active within hospice.

“For a long time, I’ve been involved with hospice, every place I have served I’ve been involved in hospice in some way,” Marzolf said.

Among other plans he wants to travel the United States, spend more time being involved with hospice, spending time with his daughter and grandkids and of course fishing and golfing.

Marzolf has left an impression on the people he has worked with.

“He’s an amazing pastor, he’s going to be greatly missed. I call him ‘the pastor of the people,’” Joy Osborn-Daniels administrative assistant at the church said.

Marzolf has also made sure to visit people throughout the community whether they were in hospitals or nursing homes.

“He was very good at visiting people in the hospitals and nursing homes ... He’s a caring person, very interested in people,” Bob Lane a congregant at the church said.

Marzolf has some words to share before he leaves to enjoy his retirement and family time.

“They are loved, God loves them,” Marzolf said.

There will be a retirement celebration for Marzolf from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday in the First United Methodist dining room where light refreshments will be served.

Contact Dustin Teays at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or dteays@newtondailynews.com