Elder Ebert

Steve served his two year mission in Austria from June of 1989 to June of 1991. One year was spent in Vienna, with the remaining year spent throughout the countryside and in smaller towns. For the past 20 years, I have heard his stories, learned about the individuals with whom and to whom he served and seen the impact that it had on his life. It was exciting to finally walk the streets and meet the people of his mission.  

The first town that we stopped in was Graz. This town was in his mission, but he didn't actually serve here, per se. Graz is the second largest city in Vienna, with an old town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Uhrturm clock tower sits atop the Schlossberg hill over looking the city. We climbed to the top for magnificent views of the city.

 Leading to the hill is a modern bridge on the Mur River. Inside is a children's play space, a theater and a cafe. The bridge is associated with the art museum.

 Steve served in Klagenfurt for six months of his mission. When we arrived, he was able to drive straight to his old apartment, just as if he had never left. He knocked on a few neighbor doors to get a quick update on the people who he knew in the area.

 We then drove to the Ollendorf's home. Dr. Ollendorf was the branch president when Steve was a missionary in the ward. We spent an hour or so catching up on their life and hearing stories about the days when Steve was there. We felt so welcome in their home.

 We wandered around the town of Klagenfurt with Steve pointing out spots, accompanied with stories from his mission. We were happy to have been able to get a better glimpse into the life of Elder Ebert.