Erwin Wichner was born on September 20, 1942, in Kreuzburg, Germany, to Heinrich and Helene Wichner. After losing their family farm during World War II, Erwin immigrated to the United States as a young boy and settled in Ludell, Kansas after being sponsored by a small Lutheran Church. After two years of hard work and adjustment, the family relocated to Belvidere, on the outskirts of Chicago, Illinois, where Erwin attended and graduated from school.
The following fall Erwin began his studies for the ministry at Concordia College Milwaukee and then continued at Concordia Senior College in Ft.
Wayne and Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. He graduated from Concordia Seminary, Springfield in 1967. He later earned a Master’s Degree in Theology and Religion from the Chicago School of Theology.
Erwin met his wife Sharon while teaching German at Concordia, River Forest, Illinois. They were married for 58 years and were blessed with daughters, Stephanie (married to Jason Roberts) and Alaina.
After seminary, Erwin was called to teach German and religion at Concordia College in Portland, Oregon. Highlights during this time included coaching the newly formed soccer team.
While in Portland Erwin joined the United States Army Reserve Chaplain Corps and shortly thereafter transitioned to active duty. He served 23 years and retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He earned numerous awards including induction into the Honorable Order of Martin of Tours. Always the adventurer, he loved caring for troops in the field and traveling with his family.
Upon retiring from the military, Erwin served as pastor at Faith Lutheran Church in Lacey, Washington, and Zion Lutheran Church in Hillsboro, Oregon. His commitment to ministry was unwavering-he often stayed up late into the night preparing meaningful sermons and selecting hymns. He treasured laughing with the children and was dedicated to visiting the sick and homebound, regardless of their religious affiliation.
Erwin had a deep love for people and truly never met a stranger. He cherished any opportunity to gather with others, cook a meal, make a joke, and share a beer. Affectionately known as “Opa,” he brought joy and laughter to his grandchildren, Anna and Sam.
Erwin was a loving husband, proud father and grandfather, and joyful servant of Christ. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and steadfast dedication to those he served.
A graveside funeral with military honors will be held at Woodlawn Funeral Home in Lacey, Washington on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 10:00am, followed by a Celebration of Life service and reception at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church in Lacey, Washington, at 11:30am.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations are made to the College Scholarship Fund at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church (4300 Carpenter Rd SE, Lacey, Washington, 98503, Phone: 360-456-2755) or Lutheran World Relief to honor Erwin’s lifelong mission of joyfully teaching and sharing God’s love.
