Rev. Dr. Gottlieb ‘Lee’ Luetkehoelter ~
November 16, 1929 – September 7, 2025
On September 7, Rev. Dr. Gottlieb ‘Lee’ Luetkehoelter passed away at his assisted living residence in Winnipeg.
He was 95.
Born in Wheatwyn, Saskatchewan, Luetkehoelter moved to Saskatoon to pursue his education. Following his graduation from seminary in 1955, he served congregations in Markinch, Wheatwyn, Cupar, Regina, Erloeser, Burnaby and Edmonton.
In 1975, Luetkehoelter was elected president of Central Canada Synod of the Lutheran Church in America (LCA). In 1980, the LCA voted to change the title of president to bishop and he served in that role until the formation of the ELCIC in 1986.
After the formation of the ELCIC in 1986, he served as the first Bishop of the Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod for eight years before retiring in 1994.
Luetkehoelter also spent time as a sessional lecturer at Lutheran Theological Seminary in the mid-1990s. He worked as director of Canadian Lutheran World Relief from 1992-98, while also serving as a board member of Group Services from 1995-2003.
Luetkehoelter was predeceased by Betty – his wife of over 45 years – in 2008. He leaves behind sons David and Jonathan.
More information on the funeral service/celebration of life will be shared as it is made available.
*A memorial service celebrating the life and faith of Rev. Gottlieb W. (Lee) Luetkehoelter, retired bishop of the MNO Synod will take place Saturday, October 11th @ 11AM at Messiah Lutheran Church, Winnipeg located at 400 Rouge Road. A reception will follow. Rostered Leaders are invited to vest and process. The liturgical colour for the day is green. The service will be live-streamed on the church’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/messiahlutheranwinnipeg for anyone unable to attend in person.
*Information updated as of September 17, 2025
