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Pastor Bruce E. Cornely
11/10/1933 — 05/16/2020
From Kennewick, WA | Born in Portland, OR
Pastor Bruce E. Cornely
Pastor Bruce E. Cornely passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday May 16th 2020. Bruce was born November 10, 1933 in Portland Oregon to Jacob and Thelma Cornely. He was the youngest of three children.
Bruce graduated Franklin High School in Portland Oregon and earned a Bachelors degree from Cascade College, Portland Oregon, a Masters of Theology from the Garret Theological Seminary, Chicago Ill. On September 01,1953, he married the love of his life Ellen Harris.
Bruce served as Pastor for numerous Evangelical United Brethren and United Methodist churches: Spokane Washington, Salem Oregon; Milwaukie Oregon, Connell Washington, Kent Washington and Wenatchee Washington. He also served as the Tacoma United Methodist District Superintendent and served on the board of pensions. He retired to Leavenworth Washington in 1999, later moving to Kennewick Washington. Bruce came out of retirements during early 2000 to serve as the interim Okanogan United Methodist District Superintendent for several months while the assigned Superintendent recovered from health issues.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory and continue his legacy of faith and love of life, Ellen Cornely; and three children, Julene Janosky, David Cornely, and Brian Cornely; six grandchildren, Jeff Janosky, Jason Janosky, Charles Cornely, Carissa Lara, Lexie Cornely and Jeromy Cornely; eight great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Bruce’s family would like to extend a special thank-you to Chaplaincy at Hospice. In lieu of flowers please send contribution to: Chaplaincy at Hospice, Connell United Methodist Church or Kent United Methodist Church
While I was recuperating from lymphoma treatments, Bruce Cornely’s wisdom and support were invaluable for me, the cabinet of Bishop Ed Paup, and the congregations of the Seven Rivers District of the United Methodist Church. Lois and I appreciated the friendship and support of Bruce and Ellen when we visited them in Kennewick. Ellen, may the Risen One comfort you and yours in these days of grieving and celebrating Bruce’s ministry-packed life!
Bruce was not only a fisher of men, but a fisher of fish. What great times Harry had fishing at Lake Curlew with his fishing buddy. They were so entertaining as they chattered while sitting on the kitchen floor of the cabin, preparing their fishing gear. Ellen is no lover of fish, so Bruce was the official fish cook. Bruce was a great brother-in-law, and he will truly be missed. May God comfort you, dear Sis and family! Love you all so much!
A great man that will be missed beyond words. Love to Ellen and the family.
Aunt Ellen, Julene, David and Brian,
We are sorry we cannot be with you at this time to celebrate and honor Uncle Bruce! He was a very intelligent, loving, caring person not only to his family but also to the many members of his congregations. He was a well respected and sought after Superintendent of the Methodist Church giving advice and help to the pastors and their families in his district. He will be missed by many, including me, his niece, Melodi Ryan Alltop.
So thankful he is now spending his time with Jesus and we will meet again.
Love,
Melodi
Guestbook for
Pastor Bruce E. Cornely