Harold C. Alvin
Obituary's Biography:
Harold Carl Alvin, Hal to his multitude of friends, passed from this earthly plane on July 26, 2020, at the age of 93 in Lindenhurst, Illinois. An Eagle Scout, his love of the outdoors was apparent from the start. After serving in WWII, he earned a degree in horticulture from the University of Illinois and put his knowledge to work managing a nursery. Hal took an active role in the Soil and Water Conservation Board, the Grayslake Community High School Board, and at the United Protestant Church in Grayslake. His hands built furniture, carved wood, hoisted sails, planted trees, and held the hand of his “best companion,” Nancy, for more than 66 years. Most knew him as a man who could boom with laughter, who would tackle any project, and who was always ready to help—a man of integrity and ingenuity.
Hal and Nancy took road trips across the country to explore parks and camp, and later to visit far-flung family and friends. In 2014, he had the privilege of participating in Honor Flight with WWII veterans. A devoted husband, treasured friend, and wonderful Dad, Hal was forever grateful for all his blessings.
He leaves his four children: Deb Pihl, Beth Anderson, Dan Alvin, and Jane School; 7 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother Walter; and cousins, nieces, and nephews, who will all greatly miss him. Information on a Celebration of Life is forthcoming, but for now, in this time of a pandemic, please share your memories of Hal, honor him with a kind deed, and cherish your loved ones as he did.
Burial will be at Memory Gardens in Arlington Heights. If you would like to honor his memory with a charitable donation, please consider these organizations that were very special to him: The Honor Flight Network honorflight.org (Box L-4016, Columbus, Oh. 43260); Door County Maritime Museum http://www.dcmm.org/donations-membership/donations (120 North Madison Ave., Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235); or the United Protestant Church, 54 S Whitney St, Grayslake, IL 60030.
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Pat Wackerlin said he was just a great guy. A lot of fun and he adored Nancy.
Pat is 97 and doing well but does use her computer.
I knew Hal from UPC. Sorry for you loss.
So sorry to learn of Hal’s passing. He was a man among men. Every Christmas he would make decorations for the season. I saved one to hang on my wall all year. I first met Hal and Nancy in 1971 at Larry Rouse’s house. There was a reception for new teachers there and my wife was a new teacher. Nancy was there too and quickly recruited me for service at the United Protestant Church. Now they’re all up there. Beware – Hal, Nancy, and Ardis are there. Hi to Pat Wackerlin too. Sincere empathy for the family.
Dear Jane, and Alvin family,
I was sad to hear of Hal’s passing. I was his physical therapist a couple of different times. Hal was a joy to work with. In his quiet way, he had a wonderful sense of humor and always made me smile. I saw his talent in the beautiful furniture he made for the home. I never met your mom, but it was obvious how much Hal loved and missed her. I like to think they are together now. Wishing you comfort and peace.
RIP Hal, a great man & I know a wonderful father. I will treasure forever the Christmas decorations I received from Hal & Nancy! Prayers for peace in your hearts!
I remember Hal, Nancy, and their kids from church. So much fun with the Friday Knights group.
I especially remember Hal – and Nancy too – as members of the Friday Knights at United Protestant Church. Lots of fun with a wonderful sense of humor. Great family, and no one will ever forget his relationship with his beloved Nancy. Rest in peace.