BERNHARD ALVESTAD

Bernhard (Ben) K Alvestad Surrounded by family Ben passed peacefully March 18, 2011. Born August 18, 1920 Ben was a lifelong resident of Gig Harbor's Crescent Valley. There he met & married his wife of 52 years, Ingrid. Ben joined the army in 1942 & was assigned to the elite First Special Service Force of American & Canadian soldiers known by the German Army as The Devil's Brigade. He was awarded the Silver & Bronze Stars, the Purple Heart, 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Combat Infantry Badge, Canadian Parachute Wings, as well as numerous other medals and citations for bravery in battle. Ben went on to become a successful commercial fisherman for 40+ years. He is survived by his children John (Kathy), Kenny (Sue), and David (Joan McIntyre) Alvestad; son-in-law Jerry Faker; grandchildren Jared (Wendy), Chad, & Kelli Faker, Heidi & Laura Alvestad, Jessica & Monica Alvestad. He was preceded in death by his wife Ingrid, daughter Karen, daughter-in-law Melody, sisters Margaret Goldman & Helen Bird, and brother Paul. Ben was a warm, kindhearted man who grew the best corn in the valley. He never talked about his military career but the entire family is deeply proud of his service to our country. Our dad and grandpa will be remembered fondly and dearly missed. At his request there will be no public services. The family suggests remembrances to Franciscan Hospice, PO Box 1502, Tacoma, WA 98401. Arrangements by Tuell-McKee Funeral Home. Online guestbook at www.tuell-mckee.com