District 2, District 5, and District 8 Director Bios
Cecil “Bud” Hensel was nominated in District 2 , Patrick Meyers was nominated in District 5 , and James Gronbeck was nominated in District 8 . All candidates were nominated without opposition. In accordance with Lake Region Electric Cooperative’s Bylaws, all three are deemed elected by acclamation*.
Cecil “Bud” Hensel
Personal Details
I am married to Sharon (Schreiner) Hensel, born in Detroit Lakes, raised in Frazee, MN. We have four adult children and five grandchildren. We have lived in rural Frazee since 1993. I was born in Wallace, ID. I grew up in Spokane, WA and then returned to Wolf Lake, MN.
School/Education
I attended Frazee High School. I received a BS degree in Physics from NDSU, then commissioned into the Air Force. In 1993, I joined the North Dakota Air National Guard (NDANG). In 1995, I became a commercial pilot for United Airlines. While a member of the NDANG, I served as Flight Commander, Operation Squadron Commander, Director of Air Operation for the State, Air Chief of Staff for the State, Member of the National Guard Bureau Strategic Planning Committee, and Assistant Adjutant General for Air.
Committee Involvement
I am a member of Sacred Heart Parish and have served on the pastoral council as chairman. I am a member of Knights of Columbus Council 12581 and currently the Grand Knight.
Why I want to continue to Serve on LREC’s Board of Directors
Since joining LREC, I have been interested in the management and distribution of our energy. I would like to support my community and co-op by being on the board.
Patrick Meyers
Personal Details
My wife Emily and I have three children. I grew up on my family’s farm in North Dakota. I’m now a resident of Dunn Township, Otter Tail County, where I own and operate my farm. I also assist with my wife’s family resort, Fair Hills, on Pelican Lake.
School/Education
I graduated from high school in Hunter, ND and Le Cordon Bleu in Mendota Heights, MN.
Why I want to continue to Serve on LREC’s Board of Directors
I am running for the District 5 board seat because I want to see LREC members continue to receive the level of service they deserve today. I am a team player and an independent thinker. I understand the value of all businesses, large and small, and the contributions they make to our economy. Affordable power is a key component to their success.
James “Jim” Gronbeck
Personal Details
I am married to Julie Gronbeck and we have three grown/married children and eight wonderful grandchildren. I have served on the board and as a volunteer at the Battle Lake Food Shelf. I am a member of the Battle Lake Lions Club and a board member at the Matthew House in Fergus Falls. We are members of First Lutheran Church, Battle Lake.
School/Education
I am a graduate of Henning High School, Fergus Falls Community College, Moorhead State University, and Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN. I served as Pastor at Bethany / Bethlehem Parish, Cromwell, MN, and at Zion Lutheran of Amor, Battle Lake.
Why I want to serve on LREC’s Board of Directors
I’ve been a member of LREC since 1992, and as a newly retired person I look forward to new learning opportunities and experiences. I hope to use my experiences to represent District 8 and make a positive contribution to our electric cooperative.