Earl E. Alt, 96, a longtime, well-known resident of 103 First Avenue, Franklin, died peacefully at 4:55 PM Wednesday, October 8, 2014, in UPMC-Northwest in Seneca following a brief illness.
He was born October 7, 1918, in Knox, a beloved son of the late: George Franklin Alt and Elizabeth Anderson Alt.
He was a 1937 graduate of Franklin High School.
Earl proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps. He entered the Army Air Corps Cadet Training program in 1943. He earned his pilot wings in 1944, and graduated from the program as a multi-engine pilot.
He served as a co-pilot at Gunnery School in Panama City, FL. He was first pilot during Four Engine School in Courtland, AL; and had served as primary pilot with Pelican Hurricane and Weather Reconnaissance at MacDill Field in Tampa, FL.
He served as pilot with the 374th Troop Carrier Squadron while serving at Nichols Field in Manila, Philippines. He also had served as a member of the U.S. Air Force Reserves for more than 20 years; retiring with rank of Major.
Earl had begun his working career as Circulation Manager with the Oil City offices of The Derrick newspaper. He had worked as a Freight Brakeman for the New York Central Railroad, and Electrical Assemblyman with Joy Manufacturing Company of Franklin. He will probably be most remembered by many with his ready smile and cheerful disposition as a Letter Carrier with the U.S. Post Office in Franklin; retiring in 1980 following 31 years of service.
He was a faithful member of Christ United Methodist Church in Franklin; where he held numerous offices, including: Trustee, member of the Administrative Council, Church Treasurer, Sunday School Class Treasurer and Sunday School Superintendent.
He was a life member of the Military Officers Association of America, the National Rifle Association, the Ohio Gun Collectors Association, the Pennsylvania Gun Collectors Association, The Sandycreek Sportsman’s Club, Bucktails Chapter of MOAA and the AARP.
Earl was an avid gun and knife collector and enjoyed hunting and travelling.
He was married February 17, 1941 in Follansbee, WV to the former Betty Nestor; who preceded him in death on February 25, 2012.
He is survived by his brother: Ralph L. Alt, Sr. of Buttermilk Hill; and by many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his beloved wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a sister: Gladys Simpson and by his brother: Willis M. Alt, Sr.
Family and friends may call Sunday afternoon from 2-4 PM in Christ United Methodist Church, 1135 Buffalo Street, Franklin.
Funeral services will be conducted Sunday in the church, beginning at 4 PM with Reverend David Janz, pastor and Reverend John Sass, retired pastor officiating.
Private interment will follow at the family lot in Franklin Cemetery.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be directed in Earl’s name to: The Endowment Fund of Christ United Methodist Church, 1135 Buffalo Street, Franklin, PA 16323.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Timothy E. Hartle Funeral Home, 1328 Elk Street, Franklin.
Please visit: www.hartlefuneralhome.com for further information and to leave a note of condolence.
