Alan Charles Stevenson
February 4, 1947 - January 22, 2018
Al Stevenson died January 22 after living a decade with dementia. He was born to Charles and Eleanor Stevenson in Phoenixville, PA, and spent most of his childhood in Idaho Falls.
A graduate of Idaho Falls High School, Al went to the University of Colorado, where he was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He transferred to the University of Minnesota to earn a BA in Economics.
He found his life's occupation while volunteering at a school for the Deaf in Quito, Ecuador through Peace Corps. At Teachers College Columbia University in New York City he earned a Masters in Education of the Deaf and Hearing Impaired and met his future wife. His first teaching position was in St. Lawrence County, New York.
Al married Catherine Sharpsteen and together they served two years as Peace Corps Volunteers in Seoul, Korea. On returning to the States, they moved to Logan to work for the Utah School for the Deaf. For 26 years Al taught students with hearing impairments in Cache, Box Elder, Weber, and Salt Lake Counties. He loved his students, and especially enjoyed teaching them math.
Al was a guy who couldn't tell a lie, and never intended to hurt anyone. He kept the dishes washed, the lawn mowed, and he liked it when everyone on the road followed the speed limit. He never missed a day of work. At restaurant gatherings Al would calculate each person's share to the penny and he was always the banker at Monopoly games.
He loved family, friends, dogs, baseball, deserts and mountains. And microbrews. He arrived early to parties and didn't stay late. If he had a new puppy or one of his kids won a competition, he'd fill you in on every single detail.
As a strong hiker, Al held a special place in his heart for the mountains of Idaho and the red rock canyons of Utah.
Preceded in death by his parents, Al is survived by his wife, Catherine Sharpsteen; sister, Betsy Stevenson Wachter; brother, David Stevenson; daughter, Kayleigh; and son, James.
A memorial reception will be held Saturday, February 10, 2018 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, in Millcreek. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to the skilled and compassionate staff at Silverado Senior Living. To honor Al's love of desert canyons, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance at suwa.org.
In Loving Memory
Catherine, Am so sorry for your loss. I hope that your many memories will help carry you through these difficult times. I have many memories of the two of you in Norwood, NY. One that stands out is the time we climbed Colden peak in the Adirondacks. Everyone made it to the top but me.. I also remember how Al was always trying to get Bill Felix to keep his cars longer. Bill was always trading in each year which upset Al.. Please keep in touch. I know that I haven't been a great one for doing that. Take care. Llona and Derf Wilhelm
Llona Wilhelm
Potsdam, NY
Al was a good friend during the time I spent in Logan, although the blighter loved rock and roll, while I did not. I miss his great enthusiasm for everything, his passion for his kids & his students, and his general love of life. Al and Catherine held TGIF dinners for anyone who could show up, bearing potluck or not, for many years without stint - a true community service for low-on-funds students! My condolences, and a wish for all the best to you, Catherine. jim
Jim Stringfellow
Salt Lake City, UT
Catherine, I was so sorry to hear of Al's passing. I have many wonderful memories of the three of us teaching in Logan. Still today, when I make just half a sandwich I have to think of Al. He was the only adult I ever knew who could be full after just half a sandwich. I hope, otherwise, you are doing well. I think of you both often. May you find comfort and peace in the memories you've shared together. Sandy Bowen
Sandy Bowen
Greeely, Co
Catherine - I am so sorry. These past years have been very difficult, but the years before - absolutely amazing. It's been an honor to know you both and share your passion in education. Al always challenged me to be the best I could be. He did this and more for all his students. May your memories bring you great joy and peace. Carol
Carol Ruddell
Cottonwood Heights, Ut
Catherine & Family, It is with pleasure that I remember our time together in Peace Corps-Korea. I'm glad that I got to know you both there and in the intervening years have kept in touch. I am saddened by the loss of Al as he always seemed upbeat and supportive. I enjoyed the video with a tear in my eye. Mental hugs and Peace be with you. Val McCown
Val McCown
Seattle, WA