EINAN’S FUNERAL HOME

Bernard Thomas Bernie Albro passed into the arms of the Lord on October 22, 2004 at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane with his family by his side.

Bernie was born on August 21, 1922, to Willis and Bina Albro in Willow Creek, Montana, where he was raised on a ranch with his four brothers and four sisters. He told many entertaining stories of his family, life on the ranch and growing up in Willow Creek. Bernie graduated from Willow Creek High School in 1940.

Bernie joined the U. S. Army in 1943 during World War II. He was stationed in Grafton Underwood in England and served in the 8 th Air Force, 384th Bomber Group as a tail gunner. He flew 35 missions over Germany in a B-17. Bernie took pride in being a member of the ''greatest generation'' and wanted to be sure that younger generations understood the sacrifices of Veterans who fought for our freedom.

Bernie worked for 33 years as a bus driver for Greyhound and retired in 1979. He married Patricia Pat on July 1, 1978, and instantly became a father and grandfather. Bernie and Pat lived in Spokane until 1996 when they moved to Richland. They enjoyed 26 wonderful and happy years together. Bernie and Pat were especially proud of their grandchildren. They traveled many miles to attend concerts, sporting events, parades and graduations. Bernie was an active member of the Elks club for many years. He led a very active lifestyle playing golf, tennis, pool and riding his bike. He also enjoyed boating and was expert at water skiing and snow skiing.

Surviving are his wife, Pat, brothers Lawrence Jeri Albro, Jim Joanne Albro and sisters Rena Korizek, Maxine Pogreba, Fran Jack Fitzhugh, Arlene Earl Barlow and Bill's wife Janis. Also left behind are step-children Sharon Kris Boness, Kathi Greg Boness, and Ron Joy Russel. Grandchildren include Matthew Boness, Kristian Jenn Boness, Bobby Russel, Shannon Seth Haselhuhn, Michele Curtis Nelson, Jason Miller, Leanne Miller, Cristi Boness, Jeremy Boness, and five great-grandchildren. Uncle Bernard adored his many nieces and nephews and they loved, honored and respected him a great deal.

Bernie's parents, brothers Bill and Emmett, brothers-in-law Dean Pogreba and Bill Korizek, and step-daughter Jeanine Miller preceded him in death.

A memorial service is planned for October 30 at 11:00 at Richland Lutheran Church, 901 Van Giesen with Pastor William S. Martens presiding. A reception will follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to a charitable organization of your choice would be appreciated.