Gloria Lillian Aarhus

In the early hours of March 5, 2026, did you hear the trumpets and major music chords playing in the clouds above? Did you hear our mother singing? We heard her singing with the angels! Gloria Lillian (Berry) Aarhus, age 87, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully when Jesus took her in his arms and carried her home to heaven.

Gloria was born on June 30, 1938 in Waseca, MN to Charles and Malinda (Krause) Berry. After a number of moves, her family finally settled in South St. Paul where she attended 8th thru 12th grades. Gloria studied Elementary Education at the University of Minnesota for 2 years before transferring to the Lutheran Bible Institute in Minneapolis where she majored in World Missions. Following graduation in 1961, she accepted a call to work in American Missions of the American Lutheran Church, where she served in various Lutheran churches in California, Utah, and Hawaii, doing evangelism, developing programs, and training staff for Sunday Schools and Vacation Bible School ministry. In 1962, she accepted a full-time call to Lamb of God Lutheran Church in Anaheim, CA where she led children's ministries (Sunday School, VBS, Luther League, Junior Choir) and visitation. While serving there, she met Bruce Aarhus, whom she married in 1965. The couple settled in Orange, CA, and in God's time started a family, welcoming five children in five years: Deborah, Beth, twins David and Jonathan, and Angela. With a deep love and unwavering devotion, Gloria raised her children with her faith in Jesus as her foundation.

Gloria and her family joined St. John's Lutheran Church in Orange in 1977 when Deborah started Kindergarten there. In the years that followed, she established the church nursery, taught Sunday school, and in 1987 accepted an offer to build the after-school program. Gloria served as the Director of St. John's School-Age Care and Summer Day Camp program for 17 years until her retirement in 2004. Working in children’s ministries was extremely fulfilling to her, and by dedicating her time and talents, she was able to share the news of God’s love and forgiveness with thousands of children over the years.

Gloria had a passion for classical music, going for tea, traveling, and spending time in nature, especially at the beach. She had the gift of conversation and the ability to make anyone feel comfortable and open up about their lives. Gloria treasured spending time with her family and friends above all. She especially loved having special time to visit with each of her six grandchildren, whether through a text string, phone conversation, or spending time together in person. Gloria loved sharing her faith and had many cherished Bible verses. Among her favorites were: Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 40:8, John 14:1-6, John 3:16, Acts 16:31, Ephesians 2:8-9, Luke 23:39-43, and 1 Peter 1:3-4.

Gloria is survived by her five children and their spouses: Deborah Aarhus, Beth and Harvey Bharaj, David Aarhus, Jonathan Aarhus, and Angela and Matt Ward, and six grandchildren: Amee Aarhus, Natalia, Liam and Hannah Bharaj, and Emma and Lily Ward. Her arms were always open, and her love was always felt. How truly blessed we are to be her children and grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of the following:

Save the Elephants https://savetheelephants.org

Lutheran Women in Mission https://www.lwml.org/home

Music Concert Series at St. John's Lutheran Church https://www.stjohnsorange.org/concerts

Good Gifts ELCA  https://goodgifts.elca.org/page/76903/action/1

Soldiers of the Cross-Serving LCMS Church Workers https://www.lcms.org/givenow/soldiers