Fr. Mike Koller has been with Holy Trinity since July 2011. A graduate of Blessed John the 23rd National Seminary, Father Mike is among a growing number of priests who choose the priesthood as a second (or in Father Mike’s case) third career.
Born in Topeka, Kansas in 1952, Father Mike graduated from Washburn University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and History. While teaching at Immaculata and Lansing High Schools, Fr. Mike used his education delay from ROTC Training to allow him the time needed to complete his Master’s Degree in Education from Washburn. From there Father Mike entered active duty in the Air Force in 1977. While in the Air Force, Father Mike traveled the world serving in Montana, Germany, Italy and Greece as part of his assignments with missile systems, arms control, INF treaty work and Intelligence.
Father Mike sees his entry into the priesthood following his two earlier careers as a benefit, having had those life experiences to draw upon, and being more comfortable with who he is as a person. Father Mike says he felt the calling to serve was always there, just never acted upon until late in life.
Father Mike is beloved by all in the parish with his gentle ways and calm wisdom. We are grateful for his leadership and spiritual guidance through many years of change. We are blessed to have him with us here at Holy Trinity.