Obituary: Masengale, Alvin L.
Age 81
He was born November 3, 1932, in Roswell, New Mexico to Robert Dow Masengale and Ethel Frances King.
His devotion to duty started with his devotion to God, his Country, his family and the Arizona Diamondbacks.
He grew up in Buckeye, Arizona, and graduated from Buckeye Union High.
He enlisted in the US Navy September 12, 1951, where he served honorably for 22 years.
During which, he was deployed for three tours of duty in Vietnam: 1966, 1967 and 1968.
While serving in Vietnam, he was awarded many military medals including: Silver Star for Gallantry in Action, Distinguished Flying Cross and Bronze Star with Clusters.
Alvin retired from service March 22, 1973.
After joining the Navy, Alvin was blessed to meet the love of his life, Carole Deanne Briggs.
Alvin and Carole were joined together, September 5, 1955; they were married for 59 years.
They had five children: Steven (Rose), Robert (Carol), Pamela, Kerri (Kelly) and Kathie “J.B.”; 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; and so many nieces and nephews we lost count.
He is survived by two brothers and a sister: Tommy Masengale of Poteau, Oklahoma, Kenneth Esslinger of Roswell, New Mexico and Sharon Gladden of Arizona.
He loved playing softball with his brother Larry, as well as many other sports: hunting, fishing, golf, and watching the cooking channels.
Our Hero was a dedicated family man.
His selflessness and unconditional love was felt by many.
He was nicknamed ‘Saint Alvin’ by his two sister-in-laws, because of their mother and grandmother who could find no fault in this terrific man.
Alvin’s example and love for the Lord has now been passed down for five generations.
The family suggests that memorials be made to Wounded Warriors via www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate or to “The Neighbors” through Cottonwood Credit Union in lieu of flowers.