He was born to parents George and Nettie Putman on December 28,1921, in Tupelo, Oklahoma. Asked to leave home at 15 years of age awhile only completing 9th grade, Al later completed his GED while in the Navy. Too young to follow his Brother, Calvin, into the Navy, Al worked for the conservation Corp until his enlistment in the Navy on June 13, 1939.
Starting salary for a sailor was a mere $21 a month. He paid $2 a month for life insurance with his parents as beneficiaries, he kept $1 a month for his own incidentals and beer while sending home the remaining $18 to his parents. Al acquired many awards and certificates of achievement over the years but his greatest accomplishments and gifts went to ensuring his family never worried about food on the table, a home to live in along with boundless love and support.
Al married Vernice, his forever wife, in January of 1946 who predeceased him in 2005.
He is survived by daughters Verlaine Storey and Lora Fratt as well as grandchildren Monica Pettigrew, Doug Fratt, Kenny Fratt, and Laurie Fratt. He has a host of great grandchildren. Al predeceased 5 siblings and his parents, George and Nettie Putman.
Al was known for his love of golf, gardening, and helping friends and family fix anything needing repair. He was ever so patient, fun loving and a bit of a practical joker to those close to him. He cared for his wife, Vernice, for 13 years after she was diagnosed with dementia. He showed her all his love, respect and humor until she passed away. He was a selfless man.
Al's Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Fairhaven Memorial Services in Mission Viejo followed by a reception at Fairhaven. A full honors Military burial will follow on Monday November 4th at 1:30 pm at Riverside National Cemetery.
The family requests that people make donations to Memorial Care Hospice in Laguna Hills, a donation to the Wounded Warriors or Navy Veterans in lieu of flowers.
