On Sunday, March 16, 2014, the season’s first Meadowlarks’ joyful song accompanied our dad on his journey to heaven to receive his eternal reward, and join his sweetheart Vera.
Alvin D. Slead, 89, was born in Kendrick, Idaho on October 8, 1924. He was the 11th child of 14 born to Nellie (Baldus) and Allen Slead.
Al was raised on the family farm until the hard time of the Great Depression caused the five youngest children being sent to St. Thomas Orphanage in Great Falls. They remained there for a number of years before their aunt, Sister Emelia, came for them. They went with her to Spokane, Washington where she was an administrator at Sacred Heart Hospital and Mount St. Michael Academy. Al graduated Gonzaga Prep High School in Spokane in 1941 and then joined the Navy, serving overseas with the Sea-Bees. Upon discharge, he found work at the Mission in St. Ignatius, Montana working on the ranch run by the Brothers and Urseline Sisters. There he met Vera Bogy, his future wife, who was also employed at the Mission. They married in May of 1947 and moved to Helena, where they remained all their lives. In late summer of 1947 Al began his career at Fort Harrison Veterans Hospital eventually becoming Head Dietician.
During these years Al and Vera were blessed with four children, Norman, Daniel, Yvonne and Debra, The family was extremely close, and enjoyed many camping trips, fishing (dad’s passion), playing games inside and outside the house, and yearly vacations to visit Dad’s many relatives in Idaho. Dad was a wonderful father and supported us kids in every activity in school or out.
Dad retired in 1979. He and mom took several trips, their favorite being a cruise to Alaska. To help stay active Dad became a member of the Y and ran lap’s “Across the State” with Henry Loble, swam laps with Ed Kellner and even learned racquetball from Leroy Bender. During the winters, he could be found on MacDonald Pass, cross-country skiing with his friend Jack Burton. Dad also played volleyball with daughter Debbie in the Coed-Helena Volleyball League. He continued to play volleyball up into his 70’s.
In the early 90’s Al became active at the Senior Center. He met many new friends and enjoyed playing pinochle, dominos and his favorite, line dancing with the ladies. He was also “official” coffee pourer whenever he was there.
In 2006 Al was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s but was able to maintain his activities until the Fall of 2013. He never lost his spirit and love for life and always had a hug and a smile for everyone.
Dad lost his courageous battle with his disease last Sunday. He will be missed by all who knew him and his engaging sense of humor.
Al was preceded in death by his parents, 12 of his 13 siblings, his beloved aunt and benefactor Sister Emelia, his loving wife of 47 years Vera, and their infant son, Danny.
Al is survived by his sister, Inez Berner of Everett, Washington; his son, Norman (Vicki) Slead and their children, Jeremy, Jason, Lindsay and Leslie; his daughter, Yvonne (Ron) Pearson and their children, Cory, Chris, Cindy and Bob; his daughter, Debbie (Dale Brewer) Slead and their children, David, Tim and Danielle, 16 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Al also leaves behind very special friends, Anne Van Sickle, Sister Mary Agnes Hogan and Irene Crawford.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:10 p.m. Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Saint Mary Catholic Community, 1700 Missoula Avenue, of which Al was a long-time and faithful member. Cremation will follow the Mass. Rite of Committal will take place at Resurrection Cemetery at a later date
Dad’ you were our rock always, and we will love you and miss you forever, the “long goodbye” is over. Rejoice with your Savior and His Blessed Mother, to whom you were so faithfully devoted.
“Didn’t you know you were my hero, you were everything I wish I could be”
Memorials in Al’s name are suggested to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society P.O. Box 4455 Helena, Montana 59604 or to the Helena Senior Center P.O. Box 1717 Helena, Montana 59624. To offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Al please visit below.
John and Karen Larson says
Al’s wife and family were always his number one priority. We know that Al has left a legacy of understanding, patience and love instilled in his children,grand children and great grandchildren.
Rest in peace Al.
Dorothy McCarter says
My deepest sympathies to Lindsay, Abby, and your entire family for the loss of such a special family member.
Maureen "Enie" Fisher says
Dear Norm and family,
Please receive our Deepest Sympathies in the loss of your dear dad. What a wonderful life he led. He is now in the Loving Hands of Our Lord and will enjoy eternal rest and peace. God Bless your family and hold you close at this time.
Bill Fitzpatrick says
Stay strong and smile . Al is on the path taken by so many and joining those that passed before him. I know God will treat him well and a reunion will be awaiting him. Wish I was in town to attend the mass. Bill
Mary Prout says
Al was a great man and surely will be missed by many. I knew him through thru the Senior Center where he was the “official coffee pourer”. He always had a smile a hug and a handshake for one and all. Many times we had wonderful conversations and he always made my day one way or the other,,,, you never knew what he was going to say or do next. I will always remember him with a happy heart and a smile! RIP my friend until we meet again,,
Cindy Backeberg says
Al was such a great man, I had the pleasure of getting to know him in his later years and he was such a delight. He was the most patient and happy man I have ever met and I will truly miss his wit! My sincere sympathies are with the entire Slead family, you were truly blessed with such a wonderful soul!
Renne't Sarbu says
Debbie, your dad is the true meaning of a dad. He may be gone in body but his wity personality and spirit will live forever through the generations. I loved playing volley ball with the guy, he showed no mercy for the weak. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Love you, Renne’t
Sheila and Jim Hill says
Norm and family, we are so sorry for the loss of your father. He remains in our thoughts and prayers. Although we did not have a chance to meet him the tributes show he was much loved.