Alvin Bietz

BIETZ, Alvin Roy November 10, 1922 - August 3, 2010 It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our dearly beloved husband, father and grandfather, Alvin Bietz. Alvin will be dearly missed by his wife of sixty-three years Pauline; their four daughters and sons-in-law and their families: Terry Anne and Ken Soderberg, Kim (Ed), Shelley (Dave) and Tracy; Bonnie Lee and Les Morris, Lance (Kerry), Cody (Emilie) and Laree; Janet and Sam Coles, Casey and Ali; and Carol and Peter Love, Russell, Chas and Neil. Alvin is also survived by a sister Evelyn Bilbey of Comox, BC, and two sisters-in-law Kathleen Bietz and Adele Bietz, both of Calgary, and a large extended family including many special nieces and nephews. Alvin was predeceased by eleven brothers and sisters: Emil, Emma, Paul, Billy, Helen, Robert, Viola, Harvey, Harry, Betty Lee and Doug. Alvin was born November 10, 1922 and raised in Hilda, Alberta. In the early 1930's his family moved to the Cardston area where he graduated from high school at the age of seventeen. He then entered the work world with his brother and brother-in-law in their small trucking business. Putting this on hold with the war looming, Alvin joined the Air Force and served in India - Burma and England. Following the war, he returned home to marry the love of his life, Pauline Pierson. Within that same year, 1947, Alvin, his brother and brother-in-law formed Economy Carriers Limited a small independent trucking company. Through hard work, dedication, loyal quality service and sound business practices, Alvin and his brothers built a significant truck transportation business in Western Canada. The ""Family Affair"" business relationship was the foundation of Economy Carriers and the beginning of a long and wonderful career. Often referred to as a pioneer in the Alberta trucking industry, Alvin served as President of both the Alberta Motor Transport Association and the Canadian Trucking Association. He was instrumental in uniting the Alberta trucking movement and was duly recognized for his efforts. Beyond the Economy Carriers Limited family, Alvin started his own family with Pauline and was blessed with four daughters. He provided a simple but loving home in which he instilled strong family values and demonstrated genuine care and compassion. Family was essential for Alvin and this was evident in both his personal and business life. Alvin was an avid outdoorsman hunting, fishing, boating and golf were activities he enjoyed throughout his life with family and friends. He cherished sharing time with his close friend and brother Harry who was instrumental in Alvin's life. Looking forward to their recreational activities, they were beyond brothers. Later in his career, Alvin took time out to vacation and golf in Hawaii with Pauline at his side for many years. As Pauline said ""He was a great man."" He left us a lasting legacy. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, August 9, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at Southwood United Church, 10690 Elbow Drive S.W. If friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Diabetes Association (Foothills), No. 101, 138 - 18 Avenue S.E., Calgary, T2G 5P9. Messages of condolence may be forwarded to the family at www.piersons.ca . Cremation and arrangements will be announced by PIERSON'S FUNERAL SERVICE. Telephone: 403-235-3602.