In Remembrance of Dr. Phil Quanbeck…

“I too remember “Stop me if you heard this one before” and he always told it, and it always fitted the subject. His teaching related the sermon topic to our lives. My sympathies go to his children and grandchildren, although I understand that their memories are happy ones. Still such a great heart will be missed.” – Helen Heitz

 

 

 

 

“My favorite memories of Phil Quanbeck are from visits to Augsburg long after I graduated frim seminary in 1962. I had received the Candidate in Theology – CTh- degree instead of the usual BTh degree for not finishing my thesis. I recalled this fact years later with him and he simply said, “You can still do it”” Years later I mentioned the same thing. This time he admitted that faculty could have been of more help”This reflected the Christian spirit to me, outshining three years of lectures in New Testament.” –  Rennard Svanoe

 

 

 

 

“I was among the many many who were fortunate to have Dr Quanbeck for a teacher while at Augsburg. The lessons taught by this amazing man were a huge influence on me. To be able to cross paths again when I joined my sister at the Bible study one or more mornings at Bethlehem was a reminder of how much I owe to his teaching. My thanks to Bethlehem for a lovely service for this man of wisdom and stories and excellent teaching. ” – Mary Farmer

 

 

 

“I worked for Dr.Quanbeck as a student at Augsburg from the fall of 1963 through the spring of 1966, It was an honor.” – Judy (Erickson) Pittelkow

 

 

 

 

“Dr. Quanbeck was a very important mentor/instructor in my journey through Augsburg University on my way to Luther Seminary. His brother, Randal, in his First Call at Moose Lake, Minnesota, taught summer Vacation Bible School when I was just a little girl growing up in Sturgeon Lake. He taught me my first favorite song: “Fishers of Men”. Additionally, Dr. Quanbeck officiated my son, Ron Anderson’s wedding ceremony to his niece, Andrea Quanbeck. I will always remember him with much joy and thanksgiving. Thanks be to God for the life of The Reverend Doctor Phillip Quanbeck.” – Rev. Ramona M. Erickson Anderson

 

 

 

 

“I enjoyed being in Dr Quanbeck’s religion class. And I always enjoyed chatting with him in the later years when our paths would cross.” – Janet Ulvin

 

 

 

 

“Fond memories of the many family visits at the Quanbecks and the love that was present there.” – Sandy Frojen

 

 

 

 

“Dr. Phil was one of the first people who spoke with us when we first joined Bethlehem. He was truly interested in listening to what anyone had to say and always ready with a warm smile and a story to share. He will be greatly missed by many. Our deepest sympathy to you his family in this time of loss.” – Iver and Jeanne Iverson

 

“A delightful friend and colleague. Rest In Peace, dear friend. You finished the race with grace and wisdom. We shall not forget you.” – Norma Noonan

 

 

 

 

“I can’t say enough how influential Phil Quanbeck was on my spiritual journey – in his bible study and also in casual conversation. He was so open minded and grounded and made a deep faith so possible for anyone – even me! I am so grateful to have known him.” – Cindy Tintner

 

 

 

 

“In 1957 I was a freshman at Augsburg College. Phil and Dora invited groups of us campus newcomers to their home for supper on Sunday nights. I don’t remember the menu, but the food was far better than the cafeteria food. Phil and Dora couldn’t have been more cordial, welcoming and interested in the background of each student. Fast forward many decades to Bethlehem Lutheran Church where Dr. Phil still remembered me and that I had grown up attending Bethany Lutheran Free Church in Seattle.” – Carol Oversvee Johnson

 

 

 

“Toughest but BEST professor I had at Augsburg. Years later I was blessed to know him through my sister Deb (Phil’s daughter-in-law). It was always the standing joke between Dr. Quanbeck and me that he made me learn the names of Joseph’s eleven brothers in Biblical Studies. What a wonderful man.” – Janice (Sheldon) Thompson

 

 

 

“I was blessed to have Phil be my theology professor at Augsburg College in 1990. I loved his stories during class. It made everything more interesting. Then fast forward to 1999 and my husband and I are going to have our daughter baptized at Bethlehem. Phil is the one who baptized her. He had such a gentle spirit and a way to make you feel comfortable. I’m so thankful our paths crossed in this life.” -Amy Larrow

 

 

 

“Years ago when we sold fair trade coffee Sunday mornings at Bethlehem, Pastor Phil was our best customer. I’m sure he truly enjoyed the taste of the coffee but he was also committed to the principle of fair trade for the growers of the beans. He was always kind and supportive–a towering figure even as he was confined to a wheelchair to get around. Pastor Phil will be missed!” – Carole Peterson

 

 

“Phil was a Child of God throughout his life. Others called him Dr. Phil or Pastor Quanbeck, but I heard him most often introduce himself as Phil. He remained playful, inquisitive, and humble, His deep faith, wisdom, quick wit and encouraging words will be missed. We are all better people for having known him.” – Pastor Rob Norris-Weber

 

 

“May this good and faith filled man Rest In Peace.” -John and Peggy Cerrito

 

“Phil could be characterized as a very modest, kind, well educated and always willing to listen to anyone who had question or thoughts to share. He often attended our Bethlehem Wednesday morning bible study and generally listened to the conversation without his superior bible knowledge.

I can remember many experiences with him on the golf course, at Bethlehem north summer cabins including one day at the Quanbeck cabin on Lake Vermillion that Phil built over a period of years. Rest in peace Phil– you will be surely missed.” -Paul Hauge

“So many years ago, My husband and I came across Phil and Dora in the skyway from the parking ramp to Orchestra Hall. How blessed we were to navigate the indoor connections in downtown Minneapolis and avoid the cold wind and ice outside. A wonderful Christmas concert was enjoyed by many that evening. A different place and time of a well lived life. Grateful for his open arms and smile that made each person feel welcome to join the faith journey he shared.” – Rita Rivers

“I remember being on staff with Phil when he was the visitation pastor at BLC. We celebrated his 80th birthday with cake, hats and pink boas! It was lovely day celebrating him. Thinking of you all!” – Pastor Heather Roth Johnson

 

 

“While many will (rightly!) comment on Phil’s skills as a Pastor and theologian, his prowess as an academic and teacher, and his amazing bible study, I think I will most miss his presence. To me, he carried himself with an amazing combination of humility and strength. His smile was warm, and personal even as it lit up the room. His handshake, firm, but soft. He made you feel welcome, without saying a word. He leaves Bethlehem with the challenge of being that strong, warm, welcoming presence for our community and for each other.” – John Helberg

 

 

 

“Our son and family are members of your congregation, which we have enjoyed attending when visiting from Duluth. A highlight was when we had opportunities to sit in on the Sunday morning discussion led by “Dr. Phil.” His whole demeanor of care and servanthood, sprinkled with a delightful sense of good humor, permeated the atmosphere of the conversation–respectful, spiritually deep, uplifting–leaving us with a real sense of God’s presence and peace. (A side note: We were married in 1959 and during the next few years of Grad School we attended Roseville Lutheran, where one of Dr. Phil’s Quanbeck relatives was pastor, we think it was Russel).” – Paul and Carol Anderson

 

 

 

“Phil’s room at Mount Olivet was down the hall from the TCU where Betty’s stayed after a hospital visit. Great grandson “Karl” came for a visit and after a time, because a restless 3 year old. In an attempt to contain some energy, Karl sat on Nana’s walker and together we went down the hall to see Phil.

After proper introductions, Phil with the ever present twinkle in his eye, stated that “Karl is a fine name”. What transpired next was me witnessing the sweetest connection with Phil engaging Karl in a genuine conversation and drawing him in with his gentle manner. Phil beamed ear-to-ear and chuckled throughout. It was a grace-filled moment. Thank you Phil for so many good conversations over the years, but special moment I carry in my heart.” – Liz Scheurer

 

 

 

“As I remember Dr. Phil Quanbeck and all he brought to us at Augsburg University (then College), I thank God for his life. Phil Quanbeck was a very real inspiration to me. Blessings to Dora and the whole family.” – Barbara Olson Dettle

 

 

 

“Dr Phil was such an inspiration to me; he made Scripture come alive. I loved the stories he shared in our Sunday Bible studies. His wisdom and wit as well as his humility made me look forward to those classes as much as the regular worship services. I miss him and feel blessed by his presence in my life, helping my faith to grow. May God bless his memory.” – Rosemary Dean

 

 

 

 

“When Barb brought me into Bethlehem, Pastor Phil was one of the first to be introduced to by Barb. I so loved his kindness, personality and his dedication to God. I learned so much from him and enjoyed our little conversations together. Barb also shared this with me and now, Barb and Pastor Phil are united in heaven along with our other loved ones.” – Douglas McNeely

 

 

 

“I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Phil when I was on staff for 13 years. He was so kind to every member of the staff, no matter what our role. He added the depth of wisdom and grace to conversations. He was faithful and supportive to Pastor Chris in how he lead. I struggled with questions about those that take the literal interpretation of the bible. He helped me to understand to not get too wrapped up into the literal, but in the big message. “What is the point? It always goes back to God’s grace and love through Jesus Christ.” Simple enough.

Thank you Phill, for your kindness, wisdom and demonstrating grace.”  -Anastasia Pydych

 

 

“I thank God for every remembrance of Phil Quanbeck. And there are many! Gracious, funny, reserved, biblical, kindly and much more. Maybe our image of a first century guy. Strong in faith.” – Carrie Bliss

 

 

 

“Phil Quanbeck was a constant, steadfast presence at Bethlehem. I remember meeting him when my Dad, Pastor Chris Nelson, started his tenure at Bethlehem. This was before the big renovation, so the only way to get from one side of the sanctuary to the other was through or under that space. We were walking down the right side sanctuary hallway at the same time as Pastor Quanbeck, and he stopped to greet us. When Pastor Quanbeck looked at me at that first introduction, I found comfort in his warm smiling eyes. When he spoke to me he was genuine – not dismissive or humoring of a child. It left a distinct impression: 28 years later, I still remember that brief moment. I didn’t see him a lot, but when I did, it was always a positive part of my day. Phil was truly a gift and a shepherd of Jesus’ love. He will be missed and remembered by many.” – Alison Nelson

“I have known Father Phil (a term of endearment with a story) since 1977. He was my advisor at Augsburg University as a freshman who had no declared major. It was a God-thing for a very naïve 18-year-old … I eventually transitioned to an advisor in the elementary education department because of my eventual degree path and the wise and clever words from Phil Quanbeck. We had conversations that I no longer recall verbatim, but I know they shaped my understanding of myself, the world, and Jesus in so many ways. I took two challenging religion courses from him as well.

When he joined the staff at Bethlehem, it was a joy for me to be in regular contact again. When he was active, he often preached for funerals, at least the ones I attended. I am still struck by his repeated phrase that we were not gathered for the event of celebrating the life of the dearly departed by accident – that it was intentional and purposeful decision to be together on that day, at that time, in that place. It will be an honor and a privilege to join with the family for Phil’s sendoff to his eternal home.May he now rest in peace in the presence of Christ!” – Naomi (Christensen) Staruch

“I did not know DR Phil (as I called him) very long but we had many chats when I was volunteering at the Information desk. Dr Phil was waiting patiently for his ride home.He always had a smile and positive quotes for the day. Rest In Peace.” – Sue Johnson

 

 

 

“Sandy and I got to know Dr. Quanbeck, who we called “Our Dr. Phil”, when we joined together twice a month on Mondays with several other Bethlehem members in the prayer chapel for what was called “Time For Prayer.” After a time to catch-up on any personal or congregational news, we would decide what we would pray for. Our group could carry on for a time until Dr. Phil would eventually need to say, “Shall we pray.” He would always have a selected reading for us to contemplate- anything from Dietrich Bonhoeffer to Bhagavad Gita. Sandy also began cutting Dr. Phil’s hair on a regular basis and she always enjoyed their conversations! As many others have said, he had a wonderful sense of humor. Sandy told me, “We would have enjoyed having him as our college professor!” Amen.” -David Gray

 

 

 

“My favorite times with Dr Phil were in his bible study classes. I admired him for his brilliant scholarship,for his ability to keep his audience entranced and for his kind loving heart. He was truly a servant of theLord. We will miss you Dr. Phil. God speed.” – Linda Masica

 

 

 

“He was addressed in many ways at Bethlehem: Pastor Quanbeck, Pastor Phil, Dr. Phil. But to me he was always DOCTOR Quanbeck, the quintessential college professor! I had the good fortune to be in his religion courses at Augsburg. His lectures were always well-researched and coherent. His lecture delivery was smooth and interesting. His expectations of his students were high, but his manner with us was gentle.

Many years later, when attending his “Dr. Phil” sessions at Bethlehem to discuss the text for a given Sunday, I heard a phrase he used often: “Let me say this about that.” And then he would proceed to give a scholarly comment that enlightened us all.

His presence in the world enriched many. His absence is our loss. Sincere sympathy to Dora and their family.” – Catherine Johnson

“A quote from Phil that has always stayed with me and Kathy: “Following Jesus and not following Jesus are not the same thing.” Phil set an example for us of what following Jesus is.” – David Mennicke

“Phil Quanbeck was the most humble person I’ve ever met. We worked together at Bethlehem in 2000-01. In the office one morning I addressed him as Pastor Quanbeck. He replied, “It’s Phil.” I said, “Yes, I know, Pastor Quanbeck.” He replied, “Well, you have two choices. You can call me Reverend Dr. Pastor Philip A. Quanbeck, or you call me Phil.” I observed another example of his humility at a communion service and luncheon at Bethlehem for homebound members. Phil was sitting at a table with a family member who was not associated with Bethlehem. When the family member asked him about his prior vocation, he simply said, “I was in education.” – Christi Bystedt

 

 

 

“About 20 years ago, my dad needed nursing home care and over his protests, we moved him from his life-long home in Duluth to the Cities. He agreed to transfer his church membership to Bethlehem, and Dr. Phil became a frequent and favorite visitor. I knew they’d get along–that twinkle in the eye Marsh Pechauer noted in Phil was in my dad’s eye too–and Dad loved to discuss theology and all kinds of other things. Several years and many visits on, Phil had a feeling he should make an extra visit to Dad to give him communion, which he did. A few days later, Dad passed away. Phil helped me plan the funeral, officiated by Phil and Pastor Chris Nelson. I will always remember Phil’s kindness to our family.” – Sue Fredstrom

 

 

 

“It was 1971. I was a Sophomore at Augsburg College eating lunch in the Caf by the windows. Outside and below, Dr. Phil came into the courtyard from the gym. I could tell he had been playing raquetball. He walked with that sooth rolling gate that you see in a well conditioned athlete. He was probably 40 at the time. I remember thinking, “He’s in pretty good shape for an old guy.” I told him that story several times at Bethlehem. I think he thought it was funny. We laughed about it.” – Scott Seal

 

 

 

“2020 has been a year that has changed us forever and learning of the passing of Dr. Phil made me stop and reflect about how kind and thoughtful a man he was. When my father became homebound in 2009 Phil became a regular visitor to their home and he did the same for my mother for as long as he could. In recent years he always made a point of asking me about Mom every time I saw him. He knew I had experience in caring for seniors and was never afraid to ask me for assistance whether helping him onto his medibus or to the rest room or putting on his coat. I was honored to help and I am a better person and the world is a better place because we knew Phil Quanbeck!” – Rob Raugland