Traverse City – Alfred W. Clare, 84 a long time resident of Traverse City died August 29, 2014 at Munson Hospice House.
Al was born January 31, 1930 in Toronto, Ontario, the son of Albert E. and Isabelle H. (Sanderson) Clare. He was raised in the northwest suburbs of Detroit graduating from Redford Union High School. On June 11, 1954, he married Joanne J. (Steen) in Angola, IN.
His working career began in 1974 with 12 years at Michigan Bell in the drafting and real estate departments, 5 years as a designer, 4 years with a residential designer then moving his family to Traverse City in 1968, working for Zimmerman Construction for 36 years as a building designer and estimator. His more than 1,000 homes and buildings are spread around the Grand Traverse Area.
Al was a Life Member of the Traverse City Elks #323 where he was Past Exalted Ruler and was named Elk of the Year twice. He also held District, State, and National offices and appointments.
Sports include bowling, skiing, boating and golf, which was his favorite. Raising his family on East Bay was one of the pleasures of his life.
Always a car enthusiast, in the 1950's he was a member and President of both the MMAC (Motor City Modified Automobile Club), as well as the MHRA (Michigan Hot Rod Association). He was inducted into the Autorama Hall of Fame in 1999 for his work in 1953 for starting the Detroit Auto Show that continues every year.
Al is survived by his wife Joanne of 60 years, one daughter Jill Ann of Boynton Beach, Fl., three sons W. Scott (Mimi) of Eagan, Mn., Timothy M. of Bloomington, Mn., and Thomas A. (Jenny) of Traverse City, five grandchildren and sister Lorraine Grace. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother George.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place her his wishes. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Munson Hospice House or to a charity of your choice. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and memories with the family. The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.