Our Team
Staff
Tyler Walker
Lead Pastor
I’m Tyler, and I have the honor of serving as the Lead Pastor of Grace Church. My heart is to help people know Jesus, find real community, and follow Him in everyday life. I’ve been married to my wife, Dawn, for 22 years, and we have two amazing kids, Dawson and Emma, plus our labradoodle, Willow, who is clearly in charge of the house. I love running, lifting weights, good coffee, and tacos. More than anything, I want Grace to be a place where people feel seen, loved, and invited into the life Jesus offers.
Nate Patterson
Student Ministries Pastor
I met Jesus in high school, and it changed everything—from my playlist to my purpose. Over 20 years later, I lead a team of godly, caring adults who exist to help students encounter Him too. I'm a husband, dad of two kids, coffee lover, sports fan, and backyard gardener. I love creating spaces where students are known, challenged, and changed—and where parents know their kids are safe, seen, and pointed toward Christ.
Bob Claprodt
Facilities Director
I have attended Grace Church since 1976 and have served in various roles during that time.
I have been married to my wife Debbie for 43 years and we have 2 married sons and 4 grandchildren.
I retired in 2023 from Eskenazi Health in Indianapolis after 48 years. I spent about 28 years in the Facilities Engineering Department and the last 20 years as the Environmental Safety Officer.
Our Facilities team is honored to help keep God’s house in good condition.
Melonie Cawvey
Executive Pastor
I grew up in church and gave my heart to Him as a little girl, but it was in my early twenties that I fully surrendered everything to Jesus. Despite hearing God's call to be in ministry when I was a young teenager, I did not experience the depth of His call until well into my adult life. Following seven years of ministry at Pathway Church in Fort Wayne, I joined the staff at Grace Church in February 2020 (right before Covid). Chris and I have three adult daughters. I’m passionate about helping others grow in their faith and discover the joy of following Jesus fully.
Christa Damron
Kids Ministries Director
I’m so grateful to serve as the Children’s Ministries Director at Grace! I get to plan lessons for Sundays and Wednesdays, support our amazing volunteers, organize fun events like VBS and summer camp (my favorite!), and care for Grace Kids and their families. Walking alongside kids and families is such a privilege.
My husband Jason and I have four wonderful kids. We love board games, gardening, singing with friends in our a cappella group, and hiking in State and National Parks. I’m also in my sourdough era!
Amber McCoy
Financial Director
I’ve been part of Grace since 2014 and joined the staff in 2017. I currently serve as Finance Director and Women’s Ministry Director and also enjoy helping people get connected to our various serving teams. On Sundays, you’ll usually find me in the Café serving coffee or cocoa or in the Lobby welcoming people. My husband, Dave, and I have been married for almost 16 years, and we share life with our two dogs, Sally and Coco. In my free time, I love sewing, crafts, reading, petting llamas, and going on cruises with Dave to explore new places.
Eric Taylor
Facilities Associate
Leadership Board
Dustin Frye
Elder
Dustin has attended Grace Church for over 20 years and is currently in his 10th year serving as an elder. He and his wife, Amy, have been married for 20 years and are blessed with six children. As a business owner with Build BW, Dustin is committed to building people and community. He leads and invests in others through small groups and coaching his kids’ sports teams, with a heart for the next generation and encouraging others in their walk with Christ.
Debbie Claprodt
Deaconess
I have attended Grace Church since the mid 1960s. I served on staff at Grace for 31 years as a clerical and office worker which grew into the Financial Director position. I retired in 2021. In addition to serving on the Leadership Board, I serve as a greeter and Prayer and Care Team member.
My husband, Bob and I have been married for 43 years. We have two grown and married sons and 4 grandchildren. We are enjoying our retirement years by spending time with our family and traveling.
