Larry Irmer '70 and his wife Christine '69 joyfully support their alma mater

Seward, NE (03/02/2026) — Larry Irmer '70 and his wife Christine '69 grew up in Lutheran schools. Larry's father served as a pastor for 50 years in The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and specialized in starting or planting new churches.

"We moved a lot, sort of like a military family," he laughed.

Larry was born in Upland, California, and throughout his childhood lived in Upland, California; Terra Bella, California; Phoenix, Arizona, and Encinitas, California. He attended Concordia High School and Junior College in Oakland, California before coming to then-named Concordia Teachers College with his high school sweetheart Chris, where he earned a bachelor of science in education. His first call was to serve Concordia High School and Junior College in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Following their time in Canada, he earned a master of science in education and special education administration from the University of Oregon.

"Then, I was hired as a project coordinator by Phoenix Union High School District, Arizona, to coordinate and develop a special education pilot program for 16 high schools," he explained. "The program was validated by the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, D.C. on March 28, 1979. I remember this date specifically because our daughter Kimberly was born the next day, March 29, 1979, in Phoenix, Arizona. I took a red-eye flight from DC to be present! Our special ed program was the first grass roots school district developed educational program to ever achieve national validation through the U.S. Department of Education. It was subsequently funded, and I traveled for the next 10 years throughout the United States and Canada assisting school districts who wished to adopt our program."

Larry finished his educational career in San Diego consulting, teaching and coaching until he retired in 2009. He served a total of 39 years in various aspects of education.

Irmer said he has many fond memories of his time on campus and the people he crossed paths with, but he said his interactions with Concordia's student activities director Luther Klenke will forever be imprinted in his mind.

"Seeing something, he took this wayward kid under his wing. I am forever grateful. When I was a senior, Luther invited me to join his family for dinner. I remember watching Luther and Nancy interact with each other and their kids and thinking to myself 'I want that!'" said Larry.

Larry said many of his professors emphasized to him the importance of listening to experienced educators during his time at the university and as he accepted his first call.

"I remember eating lunch in the school cafeteria with the old-timers, asking questions and soaking up information from their varied experiences," he said. "My education at Concordia was grounded in faith, made common sense and provided a solid foundation upon which I could grow, develop, mature and innovate with confidence."

Throughout his career, Larry said God has provided direction and guidance, and he and Chris are thankful for all of the opportunities they have had to serve.

Larry and Chris have three children and two grandchildren. In retirement, Larry loves attending auto auctions and has owned more than 60 vehicles, flipping most of them. As he reflects on his career and God's good gifts, Larry said he and Chris are blessed to be able to financially support Concordia Nebraska and encourage others to do so.

"Concordia Nebraska saved and changed my life," said Larry. "Without Concordia, God only knows where I might be today. When I attended the university, the LCMS, local Lutheran congregations and Thrivent supported me. My education at the university was life changing, and I am thankful beyond words. Any and all support we might offer is done cheerfully and thankfully. How can we help? Put me in, coach!"

Larry encourages others to consider the many students at Concordia Nebraska who would benefit from the financial gifts of others.

"They need our assistance now more than ever! If you see Concordia Advancement Officer Pete Kenow's name appear on your caller ID, cheerfully answer his call and God's call to support the university!" he said. "Every dollar counts! Any amount donated will be a blessing! Ponder Concordia! Pray for Concordia! Support Concordia! Then, watch how this very special university will continue to be a blessing to many! Concordia University, Nebraska is a light. It is unique! It is special! It makes a difference! God continues to work in and through the many people and students who are Concordia!"

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