Karl A. Hommen

Karl Arnold Hommen, 88, of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, passed away on September 30, 2025.

Karl's identity was tied to his birthplace of Brooklyn New York and being a first generation Norwegian. He loved conversation and the company of others, enjoying the camaraderie of the gym, delighted in discussing politics and other current issues, and watching classic episodes of Seinfeld. His warmth, curiosity, and devotion to community left a lasting impression on those he called friends.

Born on April 2, 1937, at Methodist Episcopal Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, Karl was the son of Nils and Walborg (Andreason) Hommen from Lyngdal. He grew up in a close-knit Norwegian community in Brooklyn with his older brother, Alfred, and developed a deep connection to the Lutheran Church as a teenager, which inspired his lifelong calling as a pastor.

Karl graduated from Fort Hamilton High School in Brooklyn, New York, and briefly worked as a clerk on Wall Street before attending St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. He then pursued theological studies at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. Following his seminary graduation, Karl served Lutheran congregations in Bronx, New York; Kettering, Ohio; Columbus, Ohio; Philadelphia and finally State College, Pennsylvania. After retiring from parish ministry, he continued his service as a visitation chaplain.

In 1969, at age 33, Karl married Alvora (Ally), his soulmate. Together they had two children, Gregg (deceased) and Erik Hommen. He is survived by his wife Alvora; his son Erik; his niece and nephew, Judy (Mark) and Kurt (Maureen); and his sister-in-law, Katherine (Alfred, deceased)

A memorial service celebrating Karl’s life will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church located in Penndel, Pa and live streamed on Facebook on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Philabundance, a charity dedicated to feeding the hungry.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Northeast Adult Daycare Center for providing a safe and engaging environment, Jefferson Hospital in Bucks County Social Services, and Buckingham Valley Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their exceptional care and support.

Karl Arnold Hommen’s life was one of faith, service, and connection—a legacy of love and dedication that will be remembered by his family and friends.