Born, raised, and still residing in the Nauvoo, IL area, Dave Poland has been married for almost 30 years to his wife, Sandy, and has two married children, Jenny and John.  After starting out farming, Dave later became an insurance agent and currently manages an agency in Fort Madison, IA.

He has also been an EMT/Volunteer Fireman for the Nauvoo Fire Department for over 10 years and a township Supervisor for over 15.  Dave also sits on a number of boards in the area, including:  Hancock County 911, Fort Madison YMCA, Fort Madison Rotary Club and Fort Madison Economic Development, just to name a few.

After first serving in pulpit supply beginning in 1987, he later attended the first class for Licensed Lay Ministry, (now called Synodically Authorized Ministry, (SAMs)), through the ELCA, completing the two-year program and was commissioned by the Synod in 2004.  Since that time, he has provided services to many congregations in this area of Illinois, most recently serving as Interim for Zion Lutheran in Liberty, IL for 2 ½ years.

In his spare time, Dave enjoys golfing, long-distance bicycling and helping his wife with her flower garden projects around their home.