Deacon Eric Benton Sorensen, beloved servant of the Queen of Apostles Parish and cherished husband of Rita for 44 years, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2024. He was a devoted father to Steven, Karen (Kevin) Helm, and Nicole (Nick) Drury, and a doting grandfather to Adeline, Claudia, Claire and Grace.
Born on Nov. 20, 1953, Deacon Sorensen began his journey in ministry after a successful career in the auto industry, where he grew and managed an industrial controls company. Yet, his true calling came later in life when he felt and answered the Lord's beckoning to serve the community. Following his ordination on Oct. 7, 2006, by Cardinal Adam J. Maida of the Archdiocese of Detroit, Deacon Sorensen dedicated himself tirelessly to the spiritual well-being of his parishioners.
Deacon Sorensen served his first assignment at St. Clement Parish in Center Line until 2012, followed by an assignment at St. Louise de Marillac Parish in Warren. He relocated to the Archdiocese of Chicago in January 2014 and was officially incardinated into the Archdiocese of Chicago on Dec. 15, 2017. His passion for ministry continued to burn brightly as he joined Queen of Apostles Parish, where he served faithfully alongside Deacon Dennis Ramos.
Throughout his life, Deacon Sorensen exemplified compassion and humility, embodying the values of faith and family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, as well as in the lives he touched through his unwavering dedication to God's work.
Funeral services for Deacon Sorensen were held at Queen of Apostles (2330 W. Sunnyside Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625) on July 23, 2024. A visitation was held on Monday, July 22, 2024, at Drake & Son Funeral Home (5303 N. Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Deacon Sorensen's spirit will forever remain a guiding light to those who seek solace in faith and community.
Obituaries for clergy and religious who have lived or served in the Archdiocese of Detroit may be emailed to [email protected]. Obituaries are printed as they are submitted, but may be edited for grammar and style. Detroit Catholic reserves the right to refuse or edit any submissions.
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