The armed was a devoted pastor who tried to help many people, his friends said.
Scott Von Lanken, 56, was shot in Wynkoop Plaza in front of Denver Union Station, while giving two women directions.
Loveland resident Dennis Severson said Von Lanken pastored at Valley Assembly of God, 186 S. Wilson Ave. in Loveland, now known as Celebration Church, for several years before moving to Ohio for a brief period.
“He was a much beloved figure in the area,” Severson said. “Many other pastors in the area had a lot of respect for him as a clergy in the region.”
Since pastoring at Assembly of God, Von Lanken took some time to pastor a church in Ohio for two years, a position the Rev. Nick Fair helped him land.
Von Lanken returned to Loveland two years ago and worked as a security guard for RTD while remaining close with local ministries, Fair said.
“He was a very fervent man and loved God, loved people and tried to help a lot of people,” Fair said. ” He was always trying to find ways to encourage and bless a lot of people. Very dedicated man to the gospel.”
A funeral service for Von Lanken is planned for 10:30 a.m. Monday at Resurrection Fellowship, 6502 E. Crossroads Blvd.
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