Born in Minot, ND, to Alfred and Lydja (née Schraft), Al spent his early years with his brother Don in Minneapolis, MN before his family settled in Portland, Oregon. Al graduated from Cleveland High School after which he joined the United States Marine Corps, serving in Korea from 1957-1959. Al found his passion in law and serving the community as deputy sheriff in Multnomah County for seven years prior to receiving his JD from Lewis and Clark College and his admission to the bar in 1967. Al spent two years as a prosecutor in the Portland City Attorney's office after which he opened his private practice as a defense attorney, giving voice to those who needed representation. Al proudly served the people of Portland and was a member of the Oregon State Bar for 50 years. Al was an avid fisherman and shared many memories with family and friends on the Columbia and Sandy Rivers. He was a man recognized by many on the streets of Portland and in the Portland institutions such as Nick’s Coney Island, Lutz’s Tavern, Caro Amicos and Otto’s. You could also find Al spending quiet moments watching a good movie with a cat curled up on his lap. A loving partner, father and grandfather, Al is survived by his partner, Sue Sample; children, Robb Varnes (wife Jennifer), Kimberly Verser, Erin Varnes; and grandchildren Bryant Verser, Alessandra Varnes and Luka Varnes.
In Lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Oregon Humane Society: www.OregonHumane.org
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