Rev. Joel Russell Mathisen

Rev. Joel Russell Mathisen, 77, of Virginia Beach, went to be with his Lord on, Wednesday, August 1, 2012. He was born in Malverne Long Island, NY and has resided in the Hampton Roads area since 1982.

Survived by loving wife of 56 years, Nancy; son, Andrew Stephen Mathisen; daughters, Melody Lynn Coratti and Robin Renee Moyer; foster son, Richard Fowler; sister, Carol Calise; brother, Bruce Mathisen; grandchildren, Matthew, Corey Lynn, Angela, Jesse, Kristina, and Nicholas; and great grandson, Kal-El.

Rev. Mathisen received his B.A. Degree in Bible and Theology in 1958 from Central Bible College in Springfield, MO. Also completed post-graduate courses at Glassboro State University in NJ and received certification to teach elementary education from 1978. He was formerly licensed to preach in 1958 and he and his wife opened their first Pioneer work for the glory of God, in 1958 at Readburn, NY with the NY District Assemblies of God. In 1961, he was asked by the NY District to Pastor a new church just beginning in Port Chester, NY, Calvary Chapel Assembly of God. In 1966, transferred to Hankins Assembly of God in the heart of the Catskill Mountains. Pastoring was Rev. Mathisen’s main thrust throughout his life. In 1960, he was ordained as a Senior Minister with the Assemblies of God. He went on to Pastor two churches in New Jersey. During this time he became the Foreign Missions Director for the Sectional Director. In 1975, he assumed the call to Pastor First Assembly of God, New Rochelle, NY. Later he was called to Bethel Assembly of God in South Norfolk.

A Celebration of Rev. Mathisen’s life will be held 11:00 am, Monday, August 6, 2012 at Glad Tidings Church of the Assemblies of God, 301 S. Newtown Road, Norfolk, with the Rev. Larry O’Brien, the South Sectional Presbyter, officiating. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 10:00 - 11:00 am. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Friends may offer condolences at www.smithandwilliamskempsville.com