Alvin "Al" Narveson

Alvin "Al" Narveson, 84, of Palestine, IL, passed away on December 22, 2023, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN. Born on December 2, 1939, in Oakland, California, Al's resilience and work ethic were evident from a young age, particularly after the loss of his parents, Peter and Inez (Kuntz) Narveson. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Peter and Mitzi.

Al grew up in Decoto, CA, and attended Washington High School in Fremont. His formative years left a lasting impression on him, shaping the man he would become. Immediately after high school, Al answered the call of duty and served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War, where he played a crucial role in armament, loading missiles and rockets onto aircraft.

Following his military service, Al eventually found himself pursuing a career that matched his passion for aviation. He landed what he considered his dream job with Pan-Am, where he thrived as a jet mechanic. Al's love for the work was palpable, and he often spoke fondly of his time there. After Pan-Am's closure, he transitioned into a career in injection molding, working for Norton Industries in Hayward, CA, and later for JAE in Oregon, from which he retired.

During his retirement, Al discovered a new passion as a docent at the Evergreen Museum, delighting visitors for 6-7 years with his knowledge and enthusiasm for aviation history before he and Jean moved to Palestine to be closer to her family. Most of his time here was spent reading mystery novels by authors like J. A. Jance or spending time in the yard with his beloved dog, his "baby", Tootsie.

Though Al was known for his glass-half-empty outlook and a gruff exterior that masked a caring heart, he was also a man of great generosity. His approach to life was pragmatic, and he cared deeply for those around him, even if he didn't always show it in conventional ways.

In 1982, he married the love of his life, Jean, and together, they blended their families, with Al bringing three children to the union and Jean bringing two. In addition to Jean, Al is survived by their children, Anthony Narveson, Kevin Narveson, Terri Dickey, Kim Millard, and Ann Lary; 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Vera Narveson.

It was his wish to be cremated, and the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine is in charge of these arrangements.