Melrose Chapel Staff

The Reverend Walter B. Carlson
The Reverend Carlson was graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1972 and from the Divinity School at Vanderbilt University in 1975. He has been in the ordained ministry of the United Methodist Church in Central Illinois and the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference since then. He came to pastor Melrose Chapel UMC in July of 2003. Wally is married to Debby, a teacher, and they have a total of five children – Lindsay, Jeremy, Alexander, Elizabeth, and Nicholas.

Administrative Secretary Jennifer Yager
Jennifer has been working at Melrose Chapel UMC since March 6, 2002. Jennifer has her Bachelor Degree in Athletic Training from Quincy University as well as a Master’s Degree in Athletic Training/Sports Medicine from Illinois State University. Jen serves in a variety of ways at Melrose Chapel, she maintains the Church Office; performs many administrative functions; and gives oversight to church volunteers, who routinely provide added support. She thoroughly enjoys her work as well as all of the people at Melrose.

Youth Minister Joshua Carlson
Josh has been the Youth Minister at Melrose since the summer of 2005. He was born and raised in Nebraska and graduated from Midland Lutheran College with a degree in Youth and Family Ministry and a minor in Music. He is married to Kayleen and they have a charming young son named Eric.