Pastors and Staff
Our dedicated staff are here to help on your faith journey.
Kathy Hickel
Pastor
Kathy has been with the Church at Cactus for the past 13 years and served as the co-pastor for six years before taking on the role of pastor in 2022. Kathy has a Master of Divinity degree from Phoenix Seminary. She also has a B.S. in Exercise Science from Arizona State University and taught Physical Education in the public school setting for 12 years. She is married and has one child, Joy.
Nancy Gunn
Minister of Music
Nancy Gunn has been the Minister of Worship at the Church at Cactus for the past 25 years. She holds a B.S. in Music Education from Grand Canyon University and has done graduate studies in vocal performance at the University of Arizona. She taught music in the public schools, as well as private voice and piano lessons. Over the years, she has led church worship using a variety of traditional and contemporary music and liturgy. She also composes and arranges music for the worship service, Valley Women's Ensemble and the church choir.
Donna Bakemeier
Office Administrator
Donna Bakemeier began her administrative career at the church well over 30 years ago. She graduated with a B.A. from Grand Canyon University in 1980 back when it was still Grand Canyon College. She majored in Art Education and minored in Office Administration. She sees this church as her second home and the people who attend as family. She is looking forward to the years ahead as God continues to use this church to break barriers and build bridges.
David Gunn
Retired Pastor
David Gunn was pastor of the Church at Cactus for 38 years and retired in 2021. He holds a B.A. in Religion from Oklahoma Baptist University, an Mdiv from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, and completed two years of training at the Academy of Spiritual Formation. He remains active in the church community.
