Garrett was born and raised in beautiful San Diego, California. He attended U.C. Davis and graduated with a degree in Agriculture Education (a combination of Plant Science with a teaching credential). More importantly, at Davis, he met Stephanie (his future wife). While in the teaching credential program, he felt led by God to go into the ministry. He attended Princeton Theological Seminary (New Jersey) for one year and completed his studies at Fuller Theological Seminary (Pasadena, CA).
Garrett has served as an ordained minister for over 40 years. He has been a pastor at churches in Riverside, the Philippines, Berkeley, Laguna Hills, Pleasanton, San Mateo, and Newark (CA).
Garrett and his wife, Stephanie, have been married for over 40 years. They have three children: Brent, Kimi, and Sara … and now they enjoy having 2 grandchildren: Andi and Charlie.
In his free time Garrett enjoys being with family, visiting the grandchildren, traveling, gardening, fishing, reading, photography, and enjoying good food and wine. However, he also feels blessed to be semi-retired as he continues to be in ministry here at JKPC.
Administrative Assistant
Sama (Sky) Merham
Benevolence Treasurer
Linda Koeplin
Contact Church office for questions johnknoxoffice@gmail.com
JKPC Session
Current Session Members (Elders)
Adult Education Vickie Wyant, 202?
Community Life, Men Euan Ramsay, 2027
Community Life, Women Sandy Rauch, 2025
Family Ministries PJ and Soeun Peterson, 2025
Finance Peter McIntyre, 2026
Human Resources Kaci Lopez, 2026
Marketing Mark Polcyn, 2026
Missions Diane Mukerjee, 2025
Outreach Alice Richards, 2024
Property Bob Rickleffs, 2026
Property Jeff Wilburn, 2026
Stewardship Dave Bolin, 2027
Worship Sue Fox, 2025
Worship Vicki Sigl, 2026
Clerk of Session Peter McIntyre, 2024
Moderator Pastor Don Strongman or Garrett Yamada
JKPC Board of Deacons
Board of Deacons
John Knox Presbyterian Deacon Team
Moderator Shana Daniel and Joy Dubey, 2025
Vice-Moderator & Secretary Ellie Haynes, 2025
Treasurer Tina Kritzer, 2025
Cards Coordinator Judy Spruit, 2025
Communion Preparation & Maryam Ladoni, 2025
Rides Coordinator
Homebound Coordinators Sue King-Irwin, 2026
Meals Coordinator Nancie Maxwell, 2024
Hospital/Rehab Visits Open
Events Coordinator Open
