Albert Terrence Bjerkestrand, 92

Albert Terrence Bjerkestrand was born March 3, 1928, in Benagaria, India, to Ole and Hazel Bjerkestrand. Al passed away Sept. 16, 2020, in Spokane, Wash. He was 92 years old.

Al grew up in Bangaria, Mornai, Grahampur, Kaerabani and Santal Parganas in Eastern India. His father, a Lutheran pastor, and his mother, a school teacher, were missionaries to India. Al attended boarding school at Mount Hermon School near Darjeeling, then to Woodstock School in Landour - Mussoorie, U.P., India, graduating high school in 1945.

In 1952, Al graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with a degree in business administration and economics, plus minors in history and sociology.

As a student at PLU, he served in the National Guard and, most importantly, he met Bonnie Newton, a student at Seattle Pacific College. The two were married in 1951.

After a brief career in business, Al decided to go to seminary in St. Paul, Minn., at Luther to obtain a Master’s in theology. Al’s professional career consisted of managing a JC Penny store, preaching as a Lutheran pastor, and owning Northgate Travel.

During their 61-year marriage, Bonnie and Al lived in Parkland and Olympia, Wash.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; Valier, Mont.; Edison and Spokane, Wash.; Saginaw, Mich.; and Ellensburg, Wash.; before settling back in Spokane in 1981.

He is survived by their four children (and their spouses): Joy (Tim), Lowell (Lynn), Wray (Merrily) and Mark (Heidi); 11 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; brother, David Bjerkestrand (Lois); brother, Joel Bjerkestrand (Sue) and a number of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Al was kind, soft-spoken, accepting, wise, supportive and very patient. Someone who lived the principles of his faith, loving those close to him dearly.

He loved history, Darjeeling tea, curry, hearing about the accomplishments of his grandchildren, sweets, being a member of the Aurora Rotary club, and looked good in a suit.

Al was preceded in death by his wife and parents.

The family would like to thank: the Pastors of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Aurora Rotary Club and Riverview Terrace staff.

Due to COVID-19 there will be no formal memorial, but a private graveside service for family. Contributions may be made to St. Mark's Lutheran, Pacific Lutheran University and Aurora NW Rotary Club.