Obituary of Arlen ''Al" Ness

11am to 1pm-Prior to service on Monday, July 14 Arlen "Al" Ness Arlen “Al” Ness passed away peacefully at Providence Mother Joseph Care Center, on Tuesday, July 8th, 2008 at the age of 78. This date marked the 58th wedding anniversary of Arlen and his beloved wife Frances. Arlen was born on February 3rd, 1930 in Rockford, IL to Oscar and Ina Ness. Arlen joined the Army and was stationed in Fort Lewis, Washington where he met Frances Roloff. The two fell in love and were married July 8th, 1950. Shortly after, Arlen was sent to Korea in the second division. He was injured in combat and nursed back to health in a Japanese hospital. Upon recovering, Arlen served as a guard for General McArthur before coming home and receiving an honorable discharge. After returning Arlen and Frances made their home in Olympia/Lacey, Washington. Arlen had many different careers throughout his life, but he found teaching inmates employment skills at the Washington Correction Center located in Shelton to be his most meaningful work. Arlen took great pride in this job until his retirement in 1994. Arlen’s hobbies included photography, painting, traveling and collecting lighthouse and tall ship replicas. Arlen is survived by his wife Frances, son Terry Ness and granddaughters Olivia Ness and Karen Jorgenson. He was preceded in death by his brother Gerald Ness. Arlen loved to socialize and made a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path. He will be remembered for his generous heart, ready smile and unique way with words. We will always treasure his “special birthday song” and vow to carry on his tradition. To leave a condolence, click on View Guestbook below: