Al, Dad, Grandpa

Alfred L. _____, 85

Rockport - Al ____, 85, husband of Shirley _________, died on Sunday, July 8 2007, at the Addison Gilbert Hospital in Gloucester.

Al was born February 5, 1922 in North Adams, MA, son of the late Matthew and Margaret ____________. He attended Stamford High School and graduated from Stamford Trade School, Stamford CT.

On March 4, 1941 Al enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served on the aircraft carrier USS Lexington from October 1941 until her sinking during the Coral Sea battle. Subsequently, as one of the original crew members and plank holder, Al served aboard the battleship USS Alabama. He was Chief Fire Controlman until the conclusion of the war. After the war, he was assigned duty assisting in the "mothballing" of the USS Alabama, the USS Massachusetts, and the USS Barnwell. Al was honorably discharged in January 1947.

After leaving the Navy, Al attended the University of Connecticut earning his degree in electrical engineering. He was employed at Western Electric Company, North Andover, for 29 years as an engineer and as Department Head of Development Engineering.

In June 1951, Al and Shirley ______ married. In June 1955, their daughter, Debra was born. While living in Groveland, MA, Al served as chairman of the Conservation Commission and was president of the Groveland PTA while his daughter attended grade school.

Al was known by family and friends as being "able to do anything". No problem or project was too daunting. This was most evident when he decided to build the "Minoan", a 36 foot, ferro-concrete ketch in his back yard. Featured in LIFE magazine in September 1970 and ten years in the making, Al's project became a highlight in the lives of family, friends, "his" engineers and even strangers from all over the states. The "Minoan" was moored in and sailed out of Rockport harbor for many years.

Al will be remembered for his fairness and his willingness to give of his time, knowledge and assistance. He always gave his best.

Al is survived by his wife, Shirley, his daughter, Debra ____; and his grand daughter, Amanda ____, all of Rockport; his sister, Marion ______ of South Carolina; his brother-in-law Norman______, three nephews, three nieces; and many special friends. He was predeceased by his brother, Thomas____; his sister-in-law, Elsie ______; his brother-in-law, George _______; and a nephew.

Honoring Al's wishes, there will be no services. The burial will be private. Contributions may be made in Al's memory to the USS Alabama Foundation, PO Box 65, Mobile AL 36601.