Alan E. Grider

Alan was born December 17, 1938, in Virden, Ill., to Ralph E. and Helen I. Grider.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Carol, and his loving wife, Myrna.

In his youth, Alan lived in Virden, Auburn, Lowder and rural Franklin, Ill. In his teens he moved to Phoenix, Ariz., with his father. He became a union carpenter at a young age, a career he held and loved until his retirement.

Moving to Springfield, he met Myrna Buhl, his future wife. They married June 1958 after Myrna's high school graduation. They were married 52 years when Myrna passed in 2010.

Alan served in the U.S. Army, 1961-1963, during which his only son, Brett, was born. Working for various companies in the 60's through the 80's, Alan was proud of the buildings and houses he worked on, fiercely proud of his union.

He retired in 1984 after an unfortunate traffic incident while on a picket line.

Already a master mason, he became an Ansar Shriner in the early 90's. Active in the 3 Wheeler's Club, Alan and Myrna attended many functions and parades.

Being a proud veteran, (although hating his time in the army), Alan joined the American Legion and became a lifetime member.

After Myrna's retirement, they both travelled the U.S. in a huge RV pulled by a diesel truck, keeping their base in Springfield.

They enjoyed a trip to Hawaii, a cruise to Alaska with their grandson, Doug, our national parks and sites from coast to coast.

After Myrna's passing and his own health issues, Alan moved to the Villa East in Sherman, Ill. A strong-willed man, proud union carpenter, Shriner, Dad and Granddad, he will be sorely missed. His time in the Villa was eased by visits from friends and family.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers.

Alan is survived by his family, Brett, Steph (STEFANO) and Doug; special aunt, Betty Andreatta; cousins, Mary Andreatta; and Cole Langley (wife, Sue).

Alan's family would like to thank and commend the staff and friends of the Villa. Their care and friendship in the past three and one-half years made Alan's time there easier.

Too many names to remember, so many fine people, thank and bless you all.

Well everyone, if you knew Alan, you know he didn't like flowers, so if you wish, make a small contribution to the Crippled Children Shriner's Fund. Thank you everyone.

Memorial Gathering: Boardman-Smith Funeral Home 10 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, 2015. Memorial Service following at 11 a.m. Graveside services immediately following at Roselawn Cemetery, Springfield.