William Albert Townsend

Al Townsend, 89, of Lake Worth, took his last breath on October 26, 2017. Predeceased by his loving wife of 51 yrs, Betty, who went to be with the Lord 12 years ago, daughter-in-law, Kelly and 2 sweet grand daughters, Laura Lee and Tara Nicole (1996), and son-in-law, Carl Nystrom (1996).

There are still six adoring offspring's, their spouses, 13 grandchildren and 7 great grands who will miss him dearly.

1. Mary Ann Singleton (Roger)

Emily Pisani (Skip)

Evelyn and Peter

Carl Nystrom

2. Joe Townsend (Carol)

Laura and Tara

Dave and Lisa

3. Elizabeth Thiemann (Mark)

Christina Miller

Kaelin, Candice and Kyle

Lisa Lucas

Angela Little (Vance)

Ezekiel

Paul Thiemann (Marie)

Charlotte

4. Rose Byrnes (Shawn)

Eamonn, Seamus and Maura

5. George (John) Townsend

6. Margaret Ungemach (Doug).

Born in rural Crossett, Arkansas, Al grew up among a large extended family. Hunting and fishing were a big part of family life. Just out of high school, Al's decision to join the Navy at the end of WWII, paid his way to become a Razorback and join the University of Arkansas Electrical Engineering program. Upon graduation, he took employment with Western Electric and a position in Clifton, New Jersey. There he met his future bride when he offered an attractive woman, with deep blue eyes, his seat on a city bus. Both were leaving the evening mass. A year later they were wed. Ten years later brought the completion of six bundles of joy! In the mean time, Al transferred to Pan American Service Company, to work at Patrick Air Force base which moved the family to Melbourne, FL. Five years later, there was another transfer to RCA AUTEC which brought the family to beautiful West Palm Beach. This meant a life of beach picnics, family vacations in mountainous North Carolina, and strong ties to the home parish of St. Juliana's. Retirement moved them to Lake Worth and St. Luke's parish. Widowhood found Al spending quality time with his children, grandchildren and great grands and an active role at St Luke's, while still finding time for a new hobby of bowling. Al's lady friend, Mary Pat, accompanied him on his many outings. Al's caregiver, Melanie, made everyday life dignified.

His gentle and peaceful spirit taught many about God’s great love and compassion.

The Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 4, 2017 at St. Luke Catholic Church, Lake Worth, FL, with a reception to follow. Interment with Military Honors will be held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, Royal Palm Beach, FL at 3:00 PM on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to: Mother Angelica, Eternal Word Television Network, 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale, AL 34210, or www.ewtn.com/motherangelica or to

the Palm Beach State College Scholarship Foundation.