Albert Woodrow Alman, Jr.
October 26, 1919 - December 6, 2008

Ive got a lot of things to get done was just like the man that made up Albert Woody Alman, Jr. A man who was so committed to the Lord he worshipped, so dedicated to the family he loved, and a man who was so passionately dedicated to his work. A gentle support and guide, he was compassionate about the things he believed in. A loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, he will forever be missed and remembered with love.

Alberts story began on a cool autumn day on the shores of Lake Michigan in 1919. Woodrow Wilson was the 28th President and the 18th amendment to the Constitution was established, prohibiting the sale of alcohol anywhere in the United States. The dial telephone was introduced and the pogo stick was the favorite of neighborhood children. In Grand Haven, Michigan of that year, Albert W. and Marie (Hyde) Alman celebrated the birth of their firstborn, a son they named Albert Woodrow Alman, Jr.

Albert was eventually joined by his younger brothers, Paul and Fred. Times were lean for young American families. His father and mother both worked outside the home to support their family, with Alberts dad working at the Tannery, and his mother working for several local factories in the area. Boyhood days for Albert, or Woody as he was often called, were spent along with other neighborhood kids, going to school, playing sports, hanging out, and sometimes getting into a little mischief. Albert even had the gumption, and the opportunity to learn to fly an airplane at such an early age. This gave him the beginning of having a great love for flying that he never outgrew.

But typical of children of the era, Albert left school in the 9th grade and set out to find work to supplement his familys income. He found work in the celery fields, which consisted of long, hot days, and hard work. He later went to work at Peerless Novelty Co. where they sold small appliances and a variety of novelty items. Albert was a dedicated and hard worker, and in these early jobs, he took on a strong work ethic that he carried with him throughout his life.

It was at Peerless Novelty Co. that he met his future bride, a young girl named Alice Smith, who also worked there. The two were quite taken with one another and soon began dating. They knew they were meant for each other. Talk of marriage soon became a source of conversation, and then the plans were in motion. Albert and Alice were married on October 12, 1940, just before Alberts 21st birthday.

With the United States beginning its involvement in WWII, Albert joined the Army Air Corps in 1941, and was sent to Ocala, Florida, where he served as a flight instructor. This was right up his alley. Albert, no doubt, put everything he had into it. He learned much from his time in the Air Corps. Following the end of the war, and upon his discharge, Albert returned home to Michigan.

Over this time, Albert and Alice were blessed with the birth of their eldest son, David, their daughter, Yvette, and youngest son, Michael. With his return home, Albert and Alice could put forth their efforts on the future of their family. Family and faith were of utmost importance to Albert, and he instilled in his children the love of family and dedication to them. He was a gentle guide and support to his children, by word, and by deed. When the children were growing up, family vacations were spent traveling and camping across the U.S., as well as northern Michigan. Albert loved to hunt and fish, along with camping and traveling, and wonderful memories were made during these times.

Albert worked for a few years as a commercial fisherman after the war to support his family, but eventually he returned to his first love, flying. Quite mechanical and creative, Albert soon began working in the aeronautics field at Continental Motors, in Muskegon. His creativity enabled him to tinker things into invention, often creating things for use at home, as well as for work. Albert was a quiet thinker, and did not give up on his projects. He was just a likable fellow, and got in there to get the job done. Impressed by his experience, dedication and knowledge, Albert was selected to become the companys pilot, flying the CEO, along with other executives, throughout the United States for business meetings. At the same time, Albert also worked on various projects at White Sands Missile Base in New Mexico.

Eventually, Albert settled into his career when he was asked to manage the Grand Haven Memorial Airport. He could not have been more content, as this enabled him to pursue his love of flying and offered him the opportunity, as well, to once again teach flying. Students came from all over the country to be taught under the instruction of Albert Alman. He became recognized as one of the finest aviation instructors in the United States. All the while, he accomplished these career achievements while continuing his work at Continental Motors, later retiring in April of 1982.

The retirement years allowed Albert and Alice to spend more time with their family, and to enjoy their grandchildren together. Albert was so very proud of his children and their accomplishments. He was the rock that held his family together. Sadly, after 52 years of marriage, Alice died in 1992. It was Alberts deep faith and trust in the Lord, and the love of family, that saw him through. Albert found many things to keep him busy, and spent more time for his love of hunting and fishing. In his later years, he realized his lifelong dream, and bought a Seabee airplane. Albert and his son, Michael, were currently in the process of restoring it. This brought great joy to Albert.

Those he leaves behind will fondly remember his quiet, yet mischievous twinkle, and a I told you so will bring a heartfelt smile. Albert will be remembered for his committed faith, dedication to his family, and passion for his work. A hard worker whose work ethic was second to none, it was just like the man that made up Albert Woody Alman, Jr., who just days before he died, had said, Ive got a lot of things to get done. He will forever be missed and lovingly remembered.

Albert W. "Woody" Alman, Jr. passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2008. He was 89. His wife Alice, and granddaughter, Brenda Sue Alman, preceded him in death. He is survived by his three children; sons, David (Beverly) Alman, Michael (Carol) Alman, both of Fruitport; daughter, Yvette (Robert) Burford-Nutman of Winter Springs, FL; grandchildren, Jenny, Emily (Jamil) Aslam, Molly Alman, Stephen and Christina Burford; great grandson, Josiah. A Memorial service to celebrate Alberts life will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2008, 11:00 AM at Clock Life Story Funeral Home - Fruitport Chapel, with Pastor Kelvin Miller officiating. Friends can meet with Alberts family on Thursday, one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to Fellowship Bible Church. Please visit Alberts memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you may leave a memory, sign the online guest book or submit a photo.

Tributes