Edward Gene Aliverti
Edward Gene Aliverti
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Edward Aliverti Obituary
Edward Gene ALIVERTI 28 July 1932 ~ 3 February 2010 Edward Gene Aliverti, age 77, of Edmonds, Washington, died February 3, 2010 at Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born July 28, 1932 to Ambrose and Louise Aliverti in Walla Walla, Wash., Ed and his brother Bob worked on the family's farm and attended school where Ed graduated from Walla Walla High School in 1950 as its valedictorian. Ed attended WSU where he graduated cum laude in 1955 with degrees in music education and communication. It was during this time that he married Shirley and their family would eventually include daughters Jann, Leslie and Gina. He returned to WSU for graduate work in 1957 and became a certified counselor after studying at Seattle University in 1965. From 1955-1960, Aliverti was the vocal music educator at Edmonds High School until he helped open Mountlake Terrace High School and established the exemplary choral program there and later served as a counselor. In 1971, Ed moved to Lynnwood High School where he helped open that new school and served as a counselor until 1976. At that time, Ed became a real fixture at Edmonds Community College where he served as the director of college information and school relations, and in 1981 he became the director of admissions and counseling. Then in 1985, Aliverti became the associate dean for student services, until he retired in 1988. True to form, Ed was even busier in retirement. Ed is survived by his best friend and wife of 55 years, Shirley; daughters Jann Aliverti; Leslie Jones (Ted); Gina Thorvilson (Rick), grandchildren Ashley Granath (Derrick), Caitlin Jones, Adam and Eric Thorvilson and one great-grandson, Dylan Edward Granath. He is also survived by his mother, Louise Aliverti, and his brother Bob and his wife Dana along with their two sons, Robert E. and Brent. He was preceded in death by his father, Ambrose Aliverti. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at Holy Rosary Church (630 7th Avenue N in Edmonds, Wash.) with a reception to follow in the parish school's gymnasium. Private graveside services will follow at Edmonds Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the Aliverti family respectfully requests that donations be made in Ed's honor to either: Multiple Sclerosis Helping Hands, 9792 Edmonds Way #229, Edmonds, WA 98020; or, Virginia Mason Pancreatic Cancer Fund,c/o Virginia Mason Medical Foundation, ATTN: Dr. Vincent Picozzi, VMMC Mail Stop B-2, 1100 9th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98111. Arrangements: Beck's Funeral Home, Edmonds, 425-771-1234; share memories with the family at www.becksfuneralhome.com.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Shawn Reed
February 27, 2010
It's been so many years since singing in the Mountlake Terrace choir, most of that time being directed by "Mr. D" but I certainly remember Mr. Al. The positive energy level in any room suddenly increased each time he entered and you felt honored for his spending time with you. Whether it was directing the next song or listening and caring as a counsellor, he did it with sincere passion. Those he guided and helped along the way know that he lead by example and we are all better for his touching our lives. His loss is mourned by so many but I'll bet the choir in Heaven is really jumpin'now.
Doug Minkler
February 20, 2010
It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Ed Aliverti. I was one of many that he had a profound impact on.
In the late 1960's the Edmonds School District had a summer music program and I took part in it. One of the classes was a trumpet sectional, and Ed was the instructor. He was the first teacher to ever show real interest in my music abilities and inspired me to continue on in music. I have been a band director for the last 33 years, currently finishing my career in Las Vegas.
I also was one of the many track athletes in the Edmonds SD who were the recipients of the famous Aliverti instructions before track meets. Because of my previous involvement with Ed, he would always inquire about my progress...this of course led to speculation from the other athletes that I might be getting "special" treatment at the starting line...we who knew Ed knew that he was watching me closer than anyone else...I never false started when Ed had the gun. Consequently I also had the opportunity to coach HS track for over 20 years and was the starter myself for many meets. I always tried to emulate the great Aliverti's style of the seriousness of the instructions, but with that twinkle in my eye as he always had.
Thank you Ed, for the inspiration and encouragement you gave me. It changed my life for the better. God Bless You
Patty Hale
February 18, 2010
Ed was like a second dad to me when I needed one. I will never forget his professional voice, nor his fatherly voice. I only wish I could have stopped my life enough so I could have visited with him. I love that whole family. I am so so sorry.
Shaun Schierberl
February 15, 2010
I am so sad to hear about Ed Aliverti's death. I was a student at Mountlake Terrace High School in 1966-68. I also sang in the Dynamics . He was my saving grace. He was so kind to me and really was the reason I could go on living in an abusive family life. I will never forget him. He truly gave me hope and a reason to go on. He also had a special place in my heart because he announced a wrestling match my son was in in high school and he had also announced my husband's matches in high school. He said it was the first time he had announced a father and a son. Ed Aliverti will be missed and my thoughts and prayers are with his family. My heart is truly saddened by the news of his passing.
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Gene Goosman
February 15, 2010
Ed Aliverti, better known to us as simply "Mr Al" at Mountlake Terrace High School. I went to Terrace from 1962 thru 1964 and was a wrestler. Mr Al was our voice on the mat. To hear him announce our matches made one very proud. Mr Al was incredible at remembering names. If he knew you once, he knew you forever, he just never forgot a name. I ran into him a few years after high school and he said "call me from time to time and let me know how you are doing. I started calling him once a year and we always had a good conversation, he always had time for you. When he was head of admissions for Edmonds Community College and I was having trouble with my oldest son staying in high school, Mr Al said "bring him in, I will straighten him out". I did and he did. I can't say enough about him as a counselor, a man, a friend. He was just a great guy. I am sure he is directing Heavens choir right now. I thought of Mr Al last year but because of things going on in my life I failed to call. Shame on me. I just learned another of lifes lessons from Mr Al.
Love ya Ed,
Gene Goosman (class of '64)
raymond durst
February 15, 2010
I grew up in a military family, and as such I ended up in 4 different high schools travelling around the country. When my family bought a new house in Edmonds I was forced to transfer to EHS from Terrace.
Mr. Aliverti not only gave me a ride from 5 Corners everyday but probably pulled some strings for me at District #15 that allowed me to transfer back to Terrace where I was able to graduate.
There is no way I can explain how much that meant to me.
The world will surely miss such kindness.
Ray Durst THS '64
Diane Forde
February 11, 2010
My love of music has truly been inspired by three great men--my dad, my high school music teacher in Petersburg, Alaska, and Ed Aliverti. I will always be grateful for "making it" into the Sno King Chorale and having the pleasure of being led by Ed! Our family all joined his admiration society--and we marveled at what he did for the love of music and the the sport of wrestling in our community and around the world!
We are very sad that this great man couldn't go on and on but it doesnt seem like he left a stone unturned in his 77 years. This must be a great consolation to his circle of friends and family!
We share your loss and your great memories, Aliverti family. Thank you for sharing your husband, dad, and grandpa with all of us.
Gina and Erik. You've been our link to your dad and grandpa in recent years as we have seen you at MPHS. May you know how much we care!
Love
Linda (Olson) Solbeck
February 10, 2010
My special memory of Ed Aliverti was watching and listening to the Edmonds High School Quire at this one program. My brother was singled out to say, solo, "What a good little boy am I!" Bob graduated in 1957, the last class to graduate from the original high school. I'm not sure what year this was, but I will always remember it! I was approximately 7 years old.
My heart, thoughts and prayers go to the Aliverti family.
My Love,
February 10, 2010
I remember Ed throughout a period of time. My cousins went to Mountlake Terrace High School and sang in the choir when he was director there. I attended Lynnnwood High School and graduated in 76 and knew him there as well. Both my mother and I sang in the Sno King Chorale for a few years and he was a wonderful director and always passionate about his work, no matter where it took him. I hadn't seen him in years but he will never be forgotten. He brought a lot of care and love to many people's lives. Thank you Ed and condolences to his family and loved ones.
Linda Clark
February 9, 2010
Our condolences to the entire Aliverti family.
Sincerely, Herb and Shirley Hilgers
Martha Berthiaume
February 9, 2010
Wow, how do you start to talk about the influences Mr. Al had on us all. Over all the years, I have thought of him often. He taught me to believe in myself. He taught me that if I didn't try there was no chance I would succeed. He showed me that passion is not a bad thing and that if you try hard enough you can even make someone like me sound good.
Will any of the Dynamic's forget "There is Nothing Like A Dame"? I think not!
We should all wish we had even 1/10th the influence on kids that he had.
I will always remember and love him.
My heart goes out to his family. Their loss is a million times greater than mine, and my heart breaks for our loss.
I'll meet you again, Mr. Al, and you will have to stomp on the podium to get us all in line, just like in the past.
You were one of the truly great leaders in the schools. Thank God for people like you!
Marty Berthiaume
Scott Hedlund
February 9, 2010
What can I say? I just received the phone call from Seattle and am in total shock...When I was a small boy Ed directed my Mother in Sno-King Choral. He always had a smile for me and was always laughing. It wasn't until later in life that I found out he was one of my Fathers teachers at Mountlake Terrace High School also...It was because of his influence and my Mothers that I found the courage to sing...
I have thought of him often over the years and he will always be in my heart...
God Bless you and yours Ed...
S T Hedlund and T L Hedlund
Drew Poulin
February 9, 2010
Despite the years, I vividly remember the passion Ed displayed as the starter of track races at Edmonds High School. "Gentlemen, take your marks!" he'd command in that great, dramatic voice, as he pointed at the starting line and raised the gun aloft. Ed's performance alone was enough to propel us through the first half-lap.
I've toed many lines since, but Ed is the only starter I remember. If those brief encounters with Ed left that deep an impression on me, he must have profoundly affected many others.
My sincere sympathy to Shirley, Jann, and the rest of his family.
Mark Press
February 9, 2010
Ed was truly a special combination of consummate musician, effervescent showman, caring(yet demanding)teacher and enthusiastic(as well as precise) conductor. His life will always be an inspiration to every one of us that were lucky enough to know him.
Stephanie Gentry
February 9, 2010
Dear Ed directed the Singing Nativity @ Victorian Country Christmas for some 20 years. I was so-o-o fortunate to be under his direction in that fine production for 7 years and through 2007, his last year as Musical Conductor and Director. He roused EVERYONE to a standing ovation each year he conducted The Singing Nativity ... Ed helped everyone LIVE (and sing) what was really REAL in our lives of faith, devotion, and downright "clean" living! I will always be honored to have known Ed and to have sung under his leadership. Condolences and blessings to Shirley and his girls. Thank you for the gift of your husband and your Dad in all the many lives he touched so warmly and kindly and enriched so naturally and sincerely. What a wonderful man!
Dan Ballard
February 9, 2010
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Aliverti, I'm very sorry to hear of his passing.
Ed touched my life back in the '70s, in a couple of fairly different ways. The first was when he acted as the mentor/advisor to a group of us Edmonds Jr. High School band kids, in forming a dixieland band, known as "Col. Beauregard's 7th Brigade" (I was one of the two trombone players). He really knew how to bring out the best in us, as we took part in a number of talent shows, played in parades, and I also have a memory of going down to Fort Lewis to play for the Governor!
The second time Mr. Aliverti came into my life was when I was running distance races on the Edmonds High School track team. He often would be enlisted to fill the role of the race-starter official. With his usual style and flair, and sense for the dramatic, he would make us runners standing there at the starting line, feel like our high school race was as important as the Olympic Games. He was quite a guy, a true original!
Kathy
February 9, 2010
To Mr. Aliverti's family: Though I never had the pleasure of having him as teacher my older siblings did. They all spoke very highly of him, he was a truly great man in their eyes. I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to you at this time. No matter when you lose a loved one it is too soon. At this time you can gain comfort from the scriptures such as John 5:28 & 29 the promises a resurrection and the promise of everlasting peace that is found in Psalms 37. Hopefully these few words can give you a measure of comfort and peace today and the days to come.
Spencer Kabelac
February 8, 2010
My tribute to Ed Aliverti
by Spencer Kabelac - wrestler, and Ed´s great-nephew
Every year I’ve been to the state tournament, since I was about 10 years old. Aside from the exciting victories, upsets, and every other exciting aspect of the sport, my favorite part of that tournament was Ed’s voice. He brought life to the tournament. He’s done more for wrestling than anyone can possibly imagine. His passion for the sport is undeniable.
I remember just being a young boy at that state tournament, telling myself “I want Uncle Ed to announce my name one day.” Part of the reason I wrestled was to make him proud. I can also recall going to watch the World Team trials in Boise, Idaho in 2003….and meeting Olympic gold medalist Kendall Cross in the hotel. When I mentioned that Ed Aliverti was my mom’s uncle, he simply said “Wow, you’re one lucky kid....Ed’s one of my favorite people that I’ve ever met, gotta love that guy.” He's the kind of guy that makes you feel like you're the most important person in the world when he talks to you. I’m sure that thousands in the wrestling community would agree. The thing that stuck with me the most is how he explained me that this sport wasn’t just about the wins and losses, its more than that. He always told me “tournaments pass, medals deteriorate, but just the fact that you wrestled, that’s something that never goes away. You can always say you did it.”
Ed will be remembered as not only a wrestling enthusiast, but the “voice of wrestling” around the world. A hall of fame member, great announcer, and just an overall good character. Thank you for all you have done. We’ll miss you Ed.
February 8, 2010
Mr.Al, I will never forget you! What an inspiration you were to so many! You inspired me to do my best and that has carried me through my life--I would run into you and Shirley ever now and again and what excitement it always brought just to speak with you! My life has been so inpacted just by who you were and has made a difference in my path of life. How I am so blessed that you played such an important place in my life. Shirley you are a wonderful person and life partner for Mr. Ed--I loved running into you both at such unexpected times and that made it oh so much more special. I am so glad that you were at my home this last May to honor the Man we loved so much! My prayers and love are with you and your wonderful girls--Shirley you and Ed have done good!!
Carol (Swierenga) Nelson Class of '66
Dianne Potter-Barnhart
February 8, 2010
Mr. Aliverti was my choir teacher at Terrace High School from 1963-1966. He was my favorite teacher and when I would run into him at airports, wrestling matches,our class reunions he would remember my name. I don't think he forgets anyone! I was so excited when I heard his voice blaring over the TV one year from the Olympics (he was announcing the wrestling, how cool was that!) it made me smile and I told my family all about what a wonder man and teacher he was. I know he will be missed, but just remembering should bring a smile to everyones face. God be with you and I will see you leading the angels some day Mr. Al :)
Gina Green
February 8, 2010
I am so grateful to Mr. Aliverti as my high school counselor at Terrace. He took the time to prepare me for job interviews: how to dress, how to speak, and most importantly, how to listen. I credit him for my success in getting a job at Fluke Manufacturing, and for keeping true to the values he taught us. I also remember his announcing, but most especially his singing. The choir of angels will truly be swinging through eternity now that Mr. Aliverti is with them! God bless, Mr. Aliveriti, God bless you always!
Betsy Laush & Family
February 8, 2010
Our world will truly miss the magic that was Ed...our loss is Heaven's gain.
Thank you for the joy, excitement, & true meaning of living you brought to so many, but personally to our family. You were a true friend to us, and we will forever be grateful.
Thank you for the love you and your whole family shared with us. We will miss you dearly, Ed, but it is through all the wonderful memories we share that your spirit will live on forever.
It is with our sincerest gratitude that we bid you a fond farewell.
Until we meet again...
Love,
the Laush family
Carol Garberg
February 8, 2010
The angels will sing loud and clear with Mr. Aliverti directing...I knew him at Terrace High school. He made music fun for us all. I saw him about two years ago and he remember my name and my family after all those years out of school. My sympathy and many prayers to the family and know we will all meet again when it is our turn to go back home. I am blessed to have known him.
J & K Johnsen
February 8, 2010
Ed was a monumental influance on so many peoples lives!
My husbands family new Ed for many years as they learned from and sang for him. I personally thought he was a true gentleman and my heart melted as he would take my hand and kiss it tenderly! He was so kind and gallant!
We will treasure the times we were lucky enough to spend singing and dancing with him during our performances at Terrace and with the Sno-King Chorale. Thank you for sharing him with us!!
He will be missed!
Keith Jackson
February 8, 2010
I knew Eddie just a few months less than six decades. That wasn't long enough. He had so much to offer!
Pedal to the metal in everything he
did. On his first major tour with
his trumpet he blows out his lip.
Thank goodness he wound up in education so he could touch so many.
I will always remember this man with
great fondness and when I remember I
will always smile. Eddie was special.
Duane Lewis
February 8, 2010
I first met Ed when I was a beginning teacher at Edmonds Jr High and
Jann was one of my students. From that first meeting, I felt the support of his handshake and unforgetable smile! That grew into a much stronger friendship as we both started at the "new" Lynnwood High and as the assistant wrestling coach, our interest in that sport helped seal the bond.
It was Ed that insisted that we make the Track record boards the centerpiece of the Lynnwood Gym. The original record boards are still
being displayed at the new Lynnwood High. I could always count on Ed to give me the scoop on any potential wrestler or track athlete that
might be new to the building.
Ed was one of the foundation blocks that provided tradition and strength to the original LHS and were carried on after he left. I can't
watch a wrestling match without hearing his voice and his smile will
be with me always. Duane Lewis
Darlene Odell
February 7, 2010
Ed was a fine teacher, Director and very Ardent Wrestling advocate for so many years. He will be missed. The only man I know got Mother's day cards. We who knew him in Sno-King Chorale found a friend and someone who challenged us always. I look back fondly on those days! Blessings to the family.
Jim Butler
February 7, 2010
I knew Ed from 1963-1970 when I was employed by the Edmonds School District as Data Processing Supervisor. We worked together, along with Al Christensen. in the counseling area doing student scheuling and grade reporting. I remember he was also active in the Teachers' Association and every special levy election, he would come to the Service Center to follow the results, which we kept on the District Computer. I also remember going to a dance once where Ed was playing in the band. It was a costume affair and I came in "drag" and Ed remarked, "Jim, you've got great legs". Years later I ran into Ed at a Christmas Fair and we shared the memory. He was one great guy and many will remember him and never forget his wit and enthusiasm.
With Deep Regards for his passing,
Sherry (Rutledge) Joos
February 7, 2010
I will miss Mr. Al so much. To me, he was my music mentor - I was in his choir for 3 years, including his last choir at Terrace High (1967). What a privilege! He was an extraordinary man who touched the lives of so many kids, making us settle for nothing less than musical excellence. He inspired us. He loved us. My prayers are with Shirley and his family, as I know they lost a patriarch. The rest of us lost a true legend and inspiration. I will never forget him.
Joseph Harris
February 7, 2010
I am sorry for your loss.I graduated from Mountlake Terrace in 1973 when Ed was a counselor.I do remember when he was the music teacher there as my sisters where apart of his program. After I graduated from Terrace I enjoyed the sno- king chorale shows over the years. I now live in San Antonio Texas where I teach High School. May God bless you and watch over you during this time.
February 7, 2010
Mr. Aliverti was my choir instructor at Terrace High. I think of him often when I hear songs he taught us - from all religions and countries. We all wanted to do our best for him because of his passion and his desire for us to succeed. I honestly didn't know anyone who didn't admire or respect him. He did his service well and humbly.
My sincere sympathies to his family and friends and I hope they all find comfort knowing he was loved deeply by this community and that his passion lives on in all those blessed to have known him.
May God Bless,
Gail (Sharp) Goldade
Melanie Jackson-Cracchiolo
February 7, 2010
Eddie Aliverti was a dear friend of my parents, Keith and Turi Ann Jackson. In 1982 he wrote me a letter that enthusiastically supported my passion for music as a career. I just found it in my files two weeks ago. He wrote,
"You must dream, and dream big...never let anyone tell you "it can't be done"...or..."It's just not worth it."
"You can be in the professional, entertainment business and still maintain your dignity, your ideals, your goals."
"Those who say that to succeed you must "be in the right place at the right time," are partially right. I am convinced that talent...talent carefully and proudfully developed...will indeed succeed and be respected."
"A little suffering is good for the soul. In fact, I will endorse that a little suffering and starving will give on the insight of him or herself that will build the base for success...if evaluated honestly by he who is suffering."
With California almost bankrupt, and most musicians struggling, I will hang this up on my wall and let Mr. Aliverti speak to me everyday.
I am so grateful that I was honored to meet him.
With great sympathy,
Melanie Jackson-Cracchiolo
Laura Partee
February 7, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. Ed was the most important person in my life and I will miss him dearly. May god bless you all. I love you, Laura Partee
laura partee
February 7, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. Ed was the most important person in my life and I will miss him dearly. May god bless you all. love always, Laura Partee
Marian Thom
February 7, 2010
I will never forget the wonderful years I spent singing in the Sno King Chorale, under Ed's wonderful (and often hilarious) leadership. As I used to tell my husband, "he could get music out of a turnip"....but those of us who sang in the chorale remember him as an extraordinary musical mentor. Even now, I remember many of the selections we sang, and when I hear them, it's Ed that I think of. I send my blessings to your family, with prayers for your comfort.
He was a legend.
With deepest sympathy,
Marian Thom (Shoreline)
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