Alvin Leroy Tomoske

Alvin L. Tomoske was born on the family farm in Sodus on April 30, 1933, the son of Alvin D. and Genevieve Tomoske. He lived there all his life, working the land he loved. He was still on the farm when the Lord called him home Wednesday, March 23 at age 88, his work complete.

He graduated Benton Harbor High School in 1952 and then served his nation part-time with Co. D, 246th Tank Bn. of the Michigan National Guard while continuing farming as his full-time profession.

Later Alvin met and fell in love with Arline Baines of Grand Rapids, and they were married Dec. 9, 1961. Together they raised two children, until Arline’s untimely death in 1976. Alvin continued raising his children and working his farm with the support of family, friends and his church, Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Sodus.

Alvin loved associating with people. For many years he ran a U-Pick fruit and vegetables business at the farm and later operated a roadside stand at rotating locations around southwestern Michigan and northern Indiana. His interactions with his customers gave him much joy; he was proud he could bring healthy fresh food to so many. Always a generous man, he frequently gave fruit to customers in need and would loan money to farm workers when there were no tasks left to perform. When he could no longer work, he was cared for by his daughter and her husband.

He is survived by his siblings, Alice (Bob) Yusko of Florida and Roger (Christine) Tomoske of Michigan; his two children, Tadd (Kimber) Tomoske and Anne (Daniel) Turbyfill; three grandchildren: Brandon (Katherine) Felthouse, Gabrielle (Alexander) Porter and Nathaniel Turbyfill; and three great-grandchildren: Brandon Jr., Kristin and Katie Felthouse.

In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Chapel Hill UMC of Sodus or the Central County Senior Center of Berrien Springs.

Share a memory online at www.bowermanfuneral.com.