Pastor Russell J. Carlson's Obituary
Pastor Russell Jonathan Carlson, 63, son of Carl and Virginia Carlson, passed into eternity on Thursday, April 4, 2019, surrounded by music, family, and friends. Born on February 5, 1956 in La Mesa, CA, Russ is survived by his wife Laurie (Bulthuis) Carlson, whom he married on July 28, 1979, and his children Emily (David) Nagel, Bethany (Daniel) Swann, and Benjamin (fiancée Nicole Mackey) Carlson as well as his siblings Kenneth (Nancy) Carlson, Gordon Carlson, and Christine (Steve) Nemeth. Russ’s career in ministry spans thirty years. His passions were simple: Jesus and his family. His faithfulness to Christ grounded his love for his family. As the senior pastor of North Haven Covenant Church (1983-1993) and Forest Park Covenant Church (1993-2013), he was known for his integrity and leadership. His sermons often featured personal anecdotes that had been cautiously screened by his best critics: his kids! He started the tradition of the candlelight Christmas Eve service, which always included his reading of a story and always concluded with the hymn “Joy to the World.” A talented pianist, Russ enjoyed accompanying the church worship team. Post-retirement, he worked for the Evangelical Covenant Church focusing on church vitality and growth. He was a graduate of North Park Theological Seminary, the University of California San Diego, and Grossmont Public Schools. A memorial service will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, April 13, 2019 at Forest Park Covenant Church (3815 Henry St.). Visitation with the family will be held from 6-8 PM Friday, April 12, 2019 at Forest Park Covenant Church. Memorials may be sent to Fresh Coast Alliance (www.freshcoastalliance.org). Share memories with the family at their on-line guest book at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St. (231) 798-1100
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