Alfred C Bartol, Jr.
June 19, 1924 - January 7, 2022
Obituary
Alfred (Al) Bartol, born in Roslyn, Washington, died peacefully at home in Seattle, after a 10-day battle with Covid at the age of 97. He was the only child of Fred and Martha Bartol. He grew up in Cle Elum and graduated from Cle Elum High School. He played trumpet in the school band and the Cle Elum Band and followed his father’s legacy of being a lifelong musician. Al served proudly in the US Navy during WWII, from 1943-1946, earning honors for his leadership in Radio Communications. Until 2010, he stayed in touch with Naval comrades by email and by traveling to reunions. In 1948, he met a fellow Cougar fan, Betty Boje, and became her husband, provider, and protector for life (73 years). In 1950, Al earned a degree from WSU in Electrical Engineering. With his wife and one year old son, he moved to West Seattle and went to work for the Boeing Company. He became a leader and project manager for design and testing of several important Boeing projects, including AWAC, 707, 727 and Minuteman missiles. Despite a busy and stressful career, Al found time to help his children and grandchildren with homework, learning to drive and practicing musical instruments, even forming a neighborhood band that practiced in his basement once a week and played sheet music he purchased for the “band.”
Al and Betty’s love blessed their 4 children: Gregory (Louise Bartol), Christine Williams (Michael), Martha Larsen (Gary), Bonita Gust (Guy), 8 grandchildren and their spouses, 12 great grandchildren, and numerous godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors, exchange students, church members and Al’s caregiver, Alice. He and Betty were always gracious, welcoming, generous, and willing to help others.
Al was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church of West Seattle for over 70 years. He served as Treasurer and Board member for many years, often inventing new systems for organization and solvency. He was a lifelong member of the Elks Lodge, Eagles, Shrine Club and Mason Lodge, living by their values for justice, brotherly love, and truth. He served many roles including president of West Seattle Shrine Club and was recognized for his outstanding service and leadership. Al was invited to receive his 75-year Masons pin this January. A memorial service and burial will take place at Tahoma National Cemetery on February 4, 2022, at 1:30pm. Please take time to share your memories of Al on Bonney Watson’s website. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Peace Lutheran Church, 8316 39th Ave SW, Seattle, Washington 98136.
I Miss you, dad! You taught me that I could do anything with hard work and persistence. You supported my efforts through everything I tried. I am so grateful for your strength, stability and love.