Alvin "Jack" Earl Pahl

Alvin Earl Pahl, affectionately known as Jack, peacefully passed away on June 9, 2026 in his home with his loving daughters, Emma and Olivia at his side. He was a devoted family man, a proud veteran, and a hardworking truck driver who always looked for the brighter sides of life. Jack was born on November 11, 1946 in California, to parents Ellen Lyvere and Alvin Earl Stoner. He spent much of his childhood in Hemlock, Michigan in the care of his maternal grandparents. Jack proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably during the Vietnam War. Following his years of military service, he truly became a "Jack of all trades." While working for the carnival circuit, he was given the opportunity to learn how to operate, fix, and drive amusement rides. He then went on to become a "Special Commodities Relocation Engineer" (AKA truck driver) for a career lasting over 40 years. Most notably, Jack worked for Nationwide Trucking Bureau where he created lifelong friends and enjoyed training new drivers. Jack met the love of his life, Bethany Ann Graszler in 1982 while at the carnival, and the pair married a year later. The Pahls settled down in Bethany's hometown of Grand Ledge, where they raised their daughters Emma and Olivia. Lovingly known as "Beth and Jack," the two never hesitated to help a neighbor in need. They loved lending a hand every year during the Mudge's Follies, a local charity event that also honored veterans. Jack was a family-focused man who loved to spend his downtime with family despite working long hours. He was proud to be a "full service Dad" who even learned how to style his daughters' hair and makeup for dance recitals. Once retired, Jack embraced his new title of "Papa." He enjoyed attending school and sporting events, taking them fishing and to carnivals, and never hesitated to play with his grandchildren. Some of Jack's favorite pastimes included reading, telling "dad jokes," and learning something new. Jack was a lover of nature who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He felt most at peace when relaxing in the quiet of the woods in awe of God's creation. Jack was a lifelong Lutheran, most recently becoming a member at King of Kings Lutheran Church where he attended with his daughter Olivia. He cherished the moments of conversation and coffee with the congregation, who also supported him during his third battle with cancer. Jack was preceded in death by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Bethany (Graszler) Pahl. Jack is survived by his daughters Emma (Zackery) Allen and Olivia Francis (Daniel Jr) Buby, who cared for him during the final year of his life. He also leaves behind the lights of his life, his adoring grandchildren: Emmett Thomas Pahl, Theodore Lee Allen, Zoey Bethany Allen, Danielle Buby, and Addison Buby. Jack will also be missed by his numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and cherished relatives and friends. Jack will be remembered for his roaring laugh, his endless supply of jokes and stories, and his deep devotion to his family. He taught his children the value of hard work and his grandchildren how to enjoy the simple moments in life. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Funeral services for Alvin "Jack" Earl Pahl will be held at Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 12pm. Following the ceremony, he will be laid to rest with military honors at Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge. Visitation will be on Friday, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and again on Saturday from 11:00 am until the time of the service. Your presence and support mean the most to us. If you would like to honor Jack's memory by assisting the family with funeral expenses, contributions can be given to the funeral home or made out to his daughter Olivia Buby. Share your memories and condolences online at holihanatkin.com.

Alvin "Jack" Earl Pahl

November 11, 1946 - June 9, 2026