Alfred “Al” Vernon Garwood passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Bismarck, North Dakota. He was born on August 29, 1945, in Stevenson, Washington, to William Avery and Nillie Viola (Whitlock) Garwood. He graduated from Yamhill-Carlton High School in Yamhill, Oregon in 1964. On April 5, 1969, Al married the love of his life, Carolyn Patricia Schug, and together they shared 55 years of devoted marriage until Carolyn’s passing in 2024. They raised two sons, Johnny Todd and Richard Lee.

In his early years, Al worked in several industries, including serving as an assistant manager and salesman for a life insurance company, where he earned Salesman of the Year. He later became a lead machinist for a manufacturing firm, training others in the trade. His career continued to grow, and he eventually became the Chief Financial Officer for a company that pioneered a patented method of converting organic material into fuel.

Al had a true entrepreneurial spirit. Alongside Carolyn, he owned and operated Saucy’s Pizza, a take‑and‑bake restaurant known for its legendary six‑pound “Porky” pizza. They later ran The Tillucum House, a steak and seafood restaurant. Both businesses were family endeavors, with Al, Carolyn and their sons working side by side in every part of the operation.

A lifelong adventurer, Al discovered his love of flying shortly after high school. In 1967, he became part‑owner of a Mooney M20E Super 21 and delighted in taking family and friends up into the sky. He was also a talented carpenter; in 1990, he and his sons gutted and renovated a log cabin in Leavenworth, Washington, a project that became a cherished family memory.

Faith was central to Al’s life. He was devoted to his relationship with Jesus and taught his children early the importance of walking closely with God. He enjoyed attending Sunday services with Carolyn and often helped with movie nights at their church. At home, watching movies was his favorite way to relax with family, and he especially loved cheering on the Seattle Seahawks with his son Rick.

Al is survived by his son Richard (Annie) Garwood of Bismarck, North Dakota.

He was preceded in death by parents; siblings: Lorrain, Stan, Jimmy and Johnny; beloved wife Carolyn; and older son, Johnny.

A private Remembrance Ceremony will be held.