Loyal V. Alaniva

Loyal V. Alaniva, age 90, passed away March 11, 2023, in Livonia, Michigan.  Loyal was born September 14, 1932, to his parents, the late Emil and Lillian (nee’ Kemp) Alaniva in Detroit, Michigan.

Surviving are his loving wife, Florence, of 68 years and their three children, John (Cindy) Alaniva, Howard (Yvonne) Alaniva, and Linda (Brian) Johnson.  He was grandpa to six grandchildren, Garrette (Molly) Johnson, Nicholas Alaniva, Robert Alaniva, Bridget Alaniva, Gavin Johnson, and Daniel Alaniva.

Loyal graduated from the University of Detroit School of Dentistry and entered the Navy Dental Corps at Great Lakes Naval Training Center Base in 1958.  In March of 1959 he received orders to the USS Prairie based in San Diego, CA.  This led to an 8 month tour in Japan and Okinawa where he served as a Dentist supporting Naval destroyer personnel in the area.  When he returned home he became a Dental Officer for a Navy Construction Battalion (also known as the “Sea-Bees”) for 6 years.  After over 20 years in the Naval reserves he retired as a Commander from the Navy.  In parallel with his Naval service he joined his brother Howard as a family practice dentist in Ferndale where he practiced for 60 years, retiring at the age of 83!  Loyal enjoyed his family, friends (many of which were high school buddies) and was active in his church for his entire life.

Friends may visit the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, Michigan on Wednesday, March 15, from 9:00 A.M. until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 A.M.

Those who wish to honor the memory of Loyal V. Alaniva are invited to consider a contribution to Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 33333 Warren Road, Westland, Michigan 48185.

Contribution envelopes will be available at the Funeral Home.