Carlson, George William

George William Carlson

9/4/1927 - 11/13/2011

The Rev. Dr. George W. Carlson died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family.

Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, he served in the U.S. Navy in World War II. He was ordained in the Augustana Lutheran Church in 1954.

His creative leadership, dynamic preaching and shepherding heart endeared him to the parishes he served in Riverside, Calif., Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and San Diego.

In 1990, he founded Pacific Media Ministry to uplift values, ethics and faith in the media. Throughout his life, George chose to make a difference in his community, this nation and around the world. He was committed to ecumenical and social justice efforts.

He is survived by his wife, Marlyss; his children, Cathy, Mike, Greg, Sue and Mary; 11 grandchildren; and a host of family and friends.

A celebration of his life will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 4761 Cass St., Pacific Beach, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 19, at 3 p.m. A private interment will be held at Fort Roscrans National Cemetery and ashes will be scattered at sea.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to First Lutheran Church, San Diego.

For additional information regarding his life and celebration please go to:

Published Nov. 18, 2011, in The Gazette