Remembering Carl

Remembering Carl...

July 16, 1901 - June 1, 2004

102 Years Young

The United Church of Christ, Second Congregational, in Westfield, Massachusetts

If you are a member, friend, or visitor of Second Church, chances are you knew Carl Nordstrom...in fact you probably shook his hand at least once! Carl was the usher for many years starting in 1968. Due to poor health, Carl reluctantly gave up his beloved job in 2003. Carl also served as a Deacon, a member of The Committee on Music, and The Committee on Christian Mission and Action. Each and every Sunday, Carl would be by the front doors to help out and welcome all who entered. It wasn’t just Sunday when you saw Carl either. He was also the head sexton for weddings and funerals. If that weren't enough, Carl attended virtually every church event from the Strawberry Supper to the Cabaret. And no, he didn't just "sit back" and watch, Carl was always busy doing something. He was "head dishwasher" for many years. For quite some time, I think he is the only one who knew how to operate the dishwasher. Carl was always quick to point out light bulbs that needed replacing or things that needed fixing. Carl cared about the church property and the people in it. He was a one-of-a-kind and an inspiration to many. Many people will remember him for his long walks all around the city.

I grew up at Second Church and knew Carl all my life. One of my memories is that many years ago, he had gotten out of his car in his driveway to open the garage door and the car was not in gear and came between him and the garage. Carl was unscathed, barely a scratch, but it had me worried about him from the time my father told me about it until I saw him in person and knew he was alright.

My most treasured memory of Carl is on a Sunday morning a few years back. I had been asked to play the pipe organ for this particular service in the absence of our regular organist. I was there early practicing (with the Chimes at the time). I saw Carl, who was always at church early, come in from the Narthex and down the east aisle. The smile on his face is a vision I'll never forget. He came right up to the organ console and said "that's beautiful". I think that made my day even more than Carl!

God Bless you Carl. You will never be forgotten.

Carl's 100th Birthday Celebration (click for more!)

As a permanent tribute to Carl, I collected sentiments about Carl from others. Below is what was submitted. If you would like to add something, email the webmaster at webmaster@secondchurchwestfield.org.

To Carl's Family,

Carl's birthday was also our wedding anniversary date and each year we would remember him with a card or gift. He was an inspiration to us in the way that he served so faithfully as head usher for many years and in the way that every day he would take a long walk, even up until his last year. We shall miss him very much.

With Sincere Sympathy,

Larry and Judy Foard
Westfield, MA. 06/05/2004

To Carl's Family,

I worked for Carl through Gentiva Health Services. He was a joy to work for. He was a quiet, nice, hardworking man. He was and is an inspiration to me, how at such an elderly age he lived on his own and drove. My parents went to church with him and always talked about how amazing he was and how he'd always help out there and what a good man he was. I am glad the Lord blessed him with such a long active life. I am saddened though to hear of his passing. God bless his family at this difficult time.

With Sincere Sympathy,

Lori Reed
Westfield, MA. 06/04/2004

I will always remember your smile as Jack and I came into the Church's narthex and shook your hand as you greeted us. We know that God had a plan for you, Carl, and we will miss you very much.

Karen Lampiasi
Westfield, MA. 06/04/2004

Carl was a good man with a very good spirit. He lived a long time on this planet, serving his God and doing good works. No doubt, he has been rewarded with eternal rest in the presence of his creator. May he rest in peace.

Adiele Nwachuku
Middletown, CT. 06/04/2004

Dick Baldwin
Westfield, MA. 06/04/2004

I will always have fond memories of Carl. Growing up in Second Church, I have known Carl most of my life. His care and concern for the church property really struck a chord with me and will be sorely missed. I admired Carl for his hard work and his long walks around the city, which I'm sure contributed to his long life. God Bless you Carl. I will never forget you!

Scott Caron
Westfield, MA. 06/03/2004

Carl, you always brightened the mornings, when you would stop in on your daily walk. Your favorite teller misses you and prays that you are at peace.

Karen at Fleet (Karen Tillman)
Westfield, MA. 06/03/2004