Obituary: Overland, Bert Allan
Age 80
OVERLAND, Bert Allan
Bert has been compared to a super-charged V-8 engine, already revved up and running while most people are just thinking about getting started.
He was a remarkably healthy, active and vital man, who after retirement continued to camp, hike, bike, snow ski, travel far and wide, and help his family, neighbors and friends with everything from remodeling projects to rebuilding engines.
He never slowed down in his nearly 80 years, never spent a day in the hospital, up until his sudden death August 6th due to complications from pneumonia.
Bert Allan Overland was born August 20, 1932 on a farm just outside of Grafton, ND.
He was an accomplished trumpet player, performing twice at the Rose Bowl with his town band, and standing in as a band member for big name swing bands coming through the area.
He graduated from Grafton High School in 1950 and enlisted in the Air Force, a route that led to many adventures as a flight engineer and pilot during the Korean War.
After his discharge his career path always involved the automobile.
Over the years he owned a race-track, became a General Motors Executive, and taught Automotive Technology at Spokane Community College for 23 years, retiring in 1993.
He launched new business ventures after retirement, and developed and patented several inventions over the years, including an environmentally friendly automotive parts washer that received a Wall Street Journal Innovative Technology Award for the Environment in 2006 .
His many activities and interests shaped a treasure trove of funny and exciting stories, so our dinners and gatherings were never quiet.
Bert was preceded in death by his parents Erik and Betsy Overland, his sister Kari, brothers Arvid, Orville, and Kenley.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years Kathryn, daughter Theolene Bakken and husband Eric Bakken of Chewelah, daughter Leslie Overland and partner Randy Mullen of Bozeman, MT, son Erik Overland and partner Heather Hoberg of Seattle, WA, three practically perfect grandchildren, his brother Edwin Overland of Watertown, SD, numerous nieces and nephews, and many good friends and neighbors.
A memorial service and Mass will be held for Bert at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 14 at Assumption Parish.
His ashes will be interred at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity or scholarship foundation of your choice, or spend time giving a helping hand to someone who needs it.
We miss him terribly, but are privileged to have been with him at his passing, and we rejoice knowing that he will never have to slow down for old age.