Westlake Community Church
Building A Future
Westlake is led by a team of “Elders,” and by our ministry staff. Meet the team below.
Westlake Elders
Westlake Staff
Joel Popenfoose - Lead Pastor
Westlake began on Palm Sunday 1996 through Joel's desire to start a non-traditional, contemporary church in the rapidly growing Huntley area. Joel, his wife Kim and his four children (Adam, Casey, Marcus, and Myra) were joined by seven other area families in starting Westlake.
Joel's focus is on providing vision and leadership for Westlake, as well as giving leadership in the areas of worship, outreach and staff development.
Joel is active in coaching in the community, and enjoys music and many sports, especially football and track.
You can contact Joel at 847-669-0475 or at jp@westlakecommunity.org.
Karen Klaus - Director of Children & Family Ministries
Karen moved from Montana to join the staff of Westlake in 2006. A Cleveland, Ohio native, Karen and her teenage daughter Kelsey now live in Union. Karen enjoys being a mom and being creative, especially through music and crafts. In addition, Kelsey and she like to be outdoors, gardening, camping, hiking or going for a bike ride.
Karen’s focus at Westlake is on Splash!, the childrens’ ministry for infants, preschoolers and kids through the fifth grade. She is dedicated to serving children and parents by providing a safe, dynamic and practical Sunday experience with lots of fun. Karen is a graduate of Notre Dame College. You can contact Karen at 847-669-0475 or at kklaus@westlakecommunity.org
Mike Ward - Director of Operations Ministries
Mike has been a member of Westlake since 1997. Over the years, Mike has been involved in several ministry areas including Setup Team (back in the cafeteria days!), Media, and Small Group leadership. Mike leads the Operations Team that focuses on Finance/Accounting, Human Resources, Legal, and Facility Management. Mike provides Leadership Development, Personal Finance, and other seminars.
Mike has been married to his 'better half', Terri (Westlake Office Administrator), for 27 years. Mike and Terri are proud parents of two fantastic kids: Chelsea (Special Ed Teacher & wife) and Cody (graduating from U of I in May '09). You'll typically find Mike working for a software company, playing hockey, building something, or just hanging out at the lake with friends. You can contact Mike at mward@westlakecommunity.org
