Derek Olson- Senior Pastor
I grew up on the east-side of Portland, OR. While I didn't necessarily grow up in a solid Christian home, the Lord was pleased to sow the seeds of the gospel through people like my mom, grandma, and friends. In my later teenage years, the Lord was gracious to draw me to Himself and ignite a desire to follow and serve Him all my days. After sensing a call to ministry, I attended and graduated from Multnomah Bible College/University. I've spent time serving as a youth pastor, associate pastor, and as a senior pastor for the last 10 years. I love the Bible and have a passion to boldly and lovingly preach the whole counsel of God's Word. I've been married to my wonderful wife, Sarah, for 19 years and together we enjoy our five children (Hannah, Nathanael, Bethany, Drew, & Eli). If you have any questions about God, River Ridge Church, or anything else you can contact me at derek@riverridgekato.org or at the church phone 507-345-7451.
Nathan Hutzel- Director of Youth and Family
Growing up in the church, Nathan came to know Christ personally and was led to saving faith through the faithful care of God’s people. He has a heart for walking alongside students and families, helping them grow in their faith and follow Jesus. His passion for youth and family ministry began while serving at Maryland Salem Children’s Trust—a ministry built on Christian principles that provided a home, family, therapy, and education for children in need. During his three years there, he worked closely with boys and girls in both the residential program and the on-site school.
Nathan and his wife, Caitlyn, began attending River Ridge in 2018, and since then God has blessed them with four children—Emmary, Jolie, Jensen, and Landric—all born while they’ve been part of the church family. Originally from Pennsylvania, Nathan is a big fan of Pittsburgh sports and enjoys studying the Battle of Gettysburg.
Feel free to reach me anytime at youth@riverridgekato.org
Caitlyn Hutzel-Administrative Assistant
Caitlyn is in her seventh year as the Office Administrator at River Ridge. She and her husband, Nathan, have 4 children, Emmary, Jolie, Jensen & Landric. Caitlyn grew up in Madelia, MN and attended college at the University of Northwestern in Roseville, MN. There she majored in Criminal Justice with a minor in Biblical Studies. Caitlyn has worked both in the professional field as a legal assistant and in the mission field as a Teaching Parent at a Christian group home in Western Maryland. Out of the office, Caitlyn enjoys spending time with her family and of course, iced coffee.
Wendell Horn — Facilities Director
I have lived in the Mankato area since 1968 when my family moved here from Fulda, MN. My wife and I started attending Mankato Evangelical Free Church, now called River Ridge, in 1994. We have been blessed to raise our three children in this faithful community and are thankful God led us to this body of believers.
Our family began helping with the cleaning and boiler responsibilities of the building shortly after the church moved to our current location. It was a very helpful side income and a wonderful opportunity to train our children as they worked alongside us and learned practical skills. In 2024 the Deacons approached me and asked if I was willing to become a full-time Facilities Director. I was very pleased to accept the new position and leave my career in the printing and packaging industry.
I have been happily married to my wife, Sheri, for over 40 years. We raised 3 wonderful children who have brought 3 equally wonderful spouses into our family. The biggest blessing is that they are all following the Lord. We currently have 8 grandchildren (1 granddaughter and 7 grandsons) and are so thankful for these gifts from the Lord.
My Mission Statement:
To use my physical and spiritual gifts to support my church family to utilize and care for the long-term stewardship of the structure we call River Ridge Church and all amenities that are provided to assist its mission, for the glory of God.