With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Carl Tuttle, age 71, who left to be with his Lord on Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Fort Collins, Colorado. 

He was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing, and in the weeks leading up to his departure, he was visited by many loved ones and received an outpouring of kind words and heart-felt support from dear friends around world.

He was born Carlton Ray Tuttle on December 26, 1953, in Natick, Massachusetts. Carl was the son of Helen and Carl Tuttle. He grew up alongside his sisters Candice, Pamela, Rita, and Janet.

On September 9, 1978, Carl married Sonja Zitny in Yorba Linda, California and were together for 29 years. Though no longer married, Sonja remained an important presence in his life, and they shared a bond that endured through the years while caring for their six children, and the welcoming of their 6 grandchildren. In his final years, Sonja offered unwavering support and care, reflecting a lasting commitment that went beyond the boundaries of marriage.

Carl was known for his wit and playful sense of humor. He brought joy to others through his quick jokes, love of pranks, and deep loyalty to the people in his life. A lifelong golf enthusiast, he spent countless hours on the course—sometimes playing well, but always laughing. Carl believed life was too short to take too seriously, and he made sure those around him rarely had the chance to.

Carl’s life was a testament to faith, family, and the transformative power of worship. His legacy began in 1965 when he met John Wimber, who became a lifelong friend and collaborator. During his formative years at Troy High School, he discovered his musical gifts, learning to play the guitar and becoming an accomplished singer and songwriter—talents that would ultimately shape the course of his life and ministry. 

In 1976, he began leading worship at a home church meeting in his sister Candy’s living room in Yorba Linda, California. He went on to serve on the worship team at Vineyard Christian Fellowship under John Wimber’s leadership. He later served in many roles within the Vineyard movement, including as a worship leader, church planter, and senior pastor—roles he approached with joy, humility, and deep faith.

Carl’s songwriting shaped modern worship, with beloved songs like “Hosanna”, "Oh, Lord Have Mercy On Me" and “Open Your Eyes,” continuing to inspire churches around the globe. “Hosanna” was even sung during a Palm Sunday mass led by Pope Francis.

In April 2024 Carl was honored with an Honorary Doctorate from Global Awakening Theological Seminary recognizing his contributions to worship and ministry.

Carl’s life exemplified his favorite scripture, Psalm 42:1: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.” His autobiography, Reckless Mercy: A Trophy of God’s Grace (2017), stands as a powerful account of his journey of faith and the mercy of God that shaped his story.

Carl is survived by his children Zachary Tuttle (Susie), Noah Tuttle (Iriana), Mercy Tatum (Trey), Sophie Beardmore (Brett), Carlton Tuttle Jr., and Lucy Schneider (Kyle); his grandchildren Ayla Tuttle, Indiana Tuttle, Willow Tuttle, Harrison Tuttle, Bear Beardmore and Birdie Beardmore; and his sisters Candice Chendorani (Andy), Pamela Dunlap (Hank), Rita Schroeder(John), and Janet Alford (Ron). He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Helen Tuttle.

A celebration of Carl’s life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Southlands Church Brea, 2950 E Imperial Hwy #2F, Brea, CA 92821. Services are under the care of Goes Funeral Care & Crematory in Fort Collins , CO.

In lieu of flowers, the family is humbly accepting donations to assist with memorial expenses. Any amount is deeply appreciated and will help ease the burden during this difficult time.

Please feel free to share any pictures, videos, stories or other fond memories on the Ever Loved "Memories & Condolences" Section.

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