Alvin (Al) Cornell Olderness

Alvin (Al) Cornell Olderness

Alvin (Al) Cornell Olderness, 83, passed away peacefully at home on July 18, 2021.

Al was born August 22, 1937, in Oakes, North Dakota, to Lloyd and Elida (Nelson) Olderness. After his father passed, Al was raised by his mother, with his two sisters and three brothers. He remained on the small dairy farm and later moved to Alaska in 1975 to start a new life and career.

Al started an insulation business in Alaska and remained there until after retirement. Although mainly working locally, his business took him to many remote locations around Alaska, and even worked and taught his trade to locals in Africa.

Al enjoyed life and loved the farm. Having lived in different places after retirement, he always returned there during summers. He was happiest in the company of family and friends, and so it was in his final days. A special thanks to all who supported him and to Hospice of the Red River Valley who gave Al such wonderful care.

Al is survived by his brother, Leon (La Nette) of Rathdrum, Idaho; and sister-in-law, Vesta Olderness, of Oakes, North Dakota. He was a much-loved dad to Vickie and Ali, Brian, Jim and Chinami, and Susan. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Randal, Naomi, Kristopher, John Kentaro, Alan Eiji, and India. Al was a surrogate father to and survived by Steve, Mike, Kenny, Maureen, Lorraine, Joan and many other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Luella Patience and Doris Frojen; brothers, Orville and Kenny; and nephew, Rick Frojen.

Alvin will be laid to rest on the farm beside his two brothers. Funeral/memorial services will not be held at this time. Instead, a celebration of his life will be held on the farm at a future date.