The Rev. Paul M. Carlson, 87, beloved husband, father, grandfather and pastor of 40 years, passed into his eternal home Feb. 18, 2020.

The son of missionary parents, the Rev. Paul and Ruth Carlson, he was born in Saigon, Vietnam.

He and his wife Gerri M. (Flexer) Carlson celebrated 65 years of marriage.

A graduate of Du Bose High School in Florida, King’s College in New York and Gordon Conwell Seminary in Massachusetts, he was pastor of the Emmaus, Wescosville and East Texas churches which combined into the Bethany United Methodist Church, Wescosville.

After 17 years there, he was pastor of the First United Methodist Church, Ephrata, for 11 years and pastor of the Grace United Methodist Church, Pen Argyl, for 11 years.

After retirement, he served as visitation pastor for Asbury United Methodist Church, South Whitehall.

Having a love of music and singing with the choir, he sang in high school, with the King’s College Singers on a national television broadcast, and in his various churches. He also loved gardening.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Cheryl Brady, of Ballston Spa, N.Y.; his son David of Germansville; three grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by brothers, Roger and Ralph, and a sister Joyce.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Asbury United Methodist Church, 1533 Springhouse Road, Allentown, PA 18104.

Condolences may be made to the family at brubakerfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements made by Brubaker Funeral Home, Catasauqua.