10/16/2026
For nine summers, if you walked through Camp Lutherhaven, you might find Barb Strohman near the laundry room. Barb and her husband, Doug, traveled in their RV, serving on 15 Laborers for Christ projects before finding Lutherhaven.
In 2016, Barb faced a difficult cancer diagnosis that changed their plans for retirement. With long-distance travel no longer an option, Doug remembered Lutherhaven, which they knew from serving in Coeur d’Alene. He called to ask if they could come volunteer…and they could!
Throughout those summers, Doug tackled maintenance projects while Barb cared for mountains of laundry, keeping linens ready for campers and guests. On Thursday nights, they loved watching campers covered in red and blue race off for the All Camp Game.
This was more than work. It was a community they loved and a ministry they believed in. When Doug remembers those years, he talks about what Lutherhaven gave to Barb.
“I truly believe working at Lutherhaven kept Barb alive much longer than anyone expected.”
Despite an uncertain prognosis, Barb went on to spend nine summers serving, laughing, and building friendships. As Doug says, “It’s more of a blessing for us to have served camp than anything we could have given camp.”
On August 5, Barb went home to be with her Lord and Savior. We miss her deeply. Her legacy lives on in the friendships she made, the campers and guests she cared for, and the ways she and Doug supported Lutherhaven through their time, talents, and generosity. We are so thankful for Barb, and for the ways she loved others and camp.
Barb’s story reminds us of the beauty of legacy. It’s how our faith, love, and values continue to bless the people and places that matter to us.
This October, for Lutherhaven Ministries’ Make-A-Will Month, we’re offering a free online will-writing tool through FreeWill. Whether creating a will or updating one, this resource can help you care for loved ones and put your wishes in writing.
We hope this tool helps you care for your family. And if camp has been part of your story, consider how that love might bless future generations.
Make yours today: www.freewill.com/lutherhaven 🩵