Retired Covenant pastor Bruce Thorson passed away in Round Lake Park, Illinois, on March 22, 2025. He was 75.
Bruce E. Thorson was born to parents Kenneth and Lois (Swanson) Thorson in Omaha, Nebraska, on June 3, 1949. He graduated from Westside High School, then earned a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska in 1972.
Bruce married Merileen Wakeley on October 16, 1971.
After earning his master’s of divinity from North Park Theological Seminary in 1981, Bruce went on to be ordained by the Evangelical Covenant Church. In 1998 he also received a certificate in gerontological pastoral care from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Together, Bruce and Merileen served in several Covenant churches, including Dawson Covenant Church in Minnesota; Aurora Evangelical Covenant Church in Nebraska; Covenant Home in Chicago; Covenant Village in Northbrook, Illinois; and Libertyville Covenant Church in Illinois.
Bruce was dedicated to a life of service and listening. In his own words, “My ministry over the years could be summed as trying to help people find healing and wholeness for their spirit, for their relationship with God.” One congregant in Minnesota shared that “others have come with their agenda and gifts; you came and just loved us.” Chaplaincy was a special calling for Bruce, allowing him the privilege of listening to people’s stories. Due to his own personal health challenges, he was especially able to relate to the residents at Covenant Village. His psychology background helped him understand the variety of people he ministered to. As a spiritual director, he was a careful listener. Bruce also had a love for music that was evident throughout his ministry, playing guitar, trumpet, and singing in quartets and choirs.
Bruce loved his children and grandchildren immensely. He taught the grandkids to fish, play games, be patient, and the value of a good nap. He told the best bedtime stories and loved snuggling on the couch. He was always supportive of his children and grandchildren and attended their games, concerts, and plays to encourage them. Especially in retirement, Bruce and Merileen enjoyed road trips together and took the time to visit all 50 states.
Bruce was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Christine. He is survived by his wife, Merileen; children, Scott, Sarah (Ben Palmberg), Julie (Keith Peterson), and Erin (Ramon Rodriguez); brothers Paul and Steve; and grandchildren, Abigail (Will Addy) and Sophia Thorson; Lars, Kajsa, and Maren Palmberg; Tessa, Calla, Andrew, and Annika Peterson; Lucia, Clara, David, and Noa Rodriguez; great-grandson Ellis Addy, and numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
A memorial service was held at Libertyville Covenant Church. Memorial gifts may be made in his name to Libertyville Covenant Church.
Peace be to his memory.
