With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Carl Leo Thurston, a compassionate soul who graced the lives of many with his presence. Carl peacefully departed this earthly realm on May 23rd, 2024, at 6:05 a.m., surrounded by the unwavering love of his cherished family.
Born on September 8th, 1926, in Buchanan Michigan to William and Grace Thurston, Carl’s life was filled with countless acts of kindness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones. He attended Buchanan High School, where he laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service and love.
In 1944, Carl courageously answered the call of duty and joined the US Army, embarking on a journey that would forever shape his character. From his basic training at Fort Hood, TX, to advanced infantry training at Fort Ord, CA, he honed his skills as an infantryman. During World War II, he valiantly served his country, witnessing the horrors of combat in the Philippines and earning the esteemed Bronze Star for his exceptional bravery and service. Upon his honorable discharge, Carl returned to his hometown, Buchanan Michigan.
It was in 1954 that Carl found his soulmate, Barbara Jean Walters, and together they embarked on a lifelong journey of love and devotion. Over the years, their union flourished, and they were blessed with the joy of raising a son and a daughter, instilling in them the values of love, faith, and compassion.
Carl’s profound spiritual transformation led him to embrace his calling as a servant of God. He dedicated his life to the Lord, serving as a pastor, Bible teacher, and playing a pivotal role in establishing several new churches. Carl’s love for God, his wife, children, family, friends, and the Apostolic faith knew no bounds. He possessed a rare ability to see the inherent worth in every individual, never considering anyone a stranger or beneath his friendship. Carl’s heart overflowed with a deep desire to help people and bear witness to the saving and life-transforming power of God’s grace.
Left to carry forward Carl’s legacy are his beloved children, Jeff (Kathy) Thurston and Anita (David) Krause, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will forever cherish the memories they shared with their beloved patriarch. Carl also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom were touched by his compassion, wisdom, and unwavering love.
Carl now reunites with his lifelong love Barbara Jean (Walters Thurston), his parents, William and Grace Thurston, as well as siblings and other family that preceded him in death. Their spirits now find solace in his eternal presence, as he joins them in the embrace of heaven.
A memorial service to honor Carl’s memory will be held at 4 p.m., Friday, May 31st, 2024 at Colliers Funeral Home, 3400 North Lindbergh Blvd., St Louis, MO with Pastor Paul Deeds officiating. Additionally, a funeral service to honor Carl’s memory will be held at 6 p.m., June 2nd, 2024, at Bethel Apostolic Tabernacle, 945 Chippewa St, Buchanan, MI. Pastor Paul Deeds will also officiate the service. Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. prior to the funeral. As we gather to bid farewell to a compassionate soul, let us find solace in the memories he left behind and strive to emulate his unwavering love, kindness, and selflessness in our own lives.
Memorial donations should be made to Bethel Apostolic Tabernacle, 945 Chippewa St, Buchanan, MI.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan.