Dr. Alfred Evans Birkelund's Obituary
Dr. Alfred Evans Birkelund
Dr. Alfred Evans Birkelund, 85, of Longview went to be with the Lord September 25, 2010.
Memorial services for Dr. Birkelund will be held Saturday, October 2, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. at Mobberly Baptist Church, Longview. Visitation will be Friday, October 1, 2010 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Rader Funeral Home, Longview.
Dr. Birkelund was born February 13, 1925 in New York City. He served his beloved country in World War II. He received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from Wagner College in New York, and continued his education at Columbia University in New York City. Dr. Birkelund earned his doctorate in Education from East Texas State University, Commerce. His career in education included teaching and administrative work.
Dr. Birkelund moved to Longview in 1968, to join the administrative staff at Letourneau University, serving as Dean of Students and later Vice President. He served in administration at Toccoa Falls Bible College, Toccoa Falls, GA. He went on to become Vice President at Dallas Baptist University. He was involved with the Gideon's International Association, Longview Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Longview.
Dr. Birkelund's life was spent serving his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, by teaching, preaching and counseling others. This was his greatest joy, and the paramount purpose in his life.
Married to his loving wife of 61 years, Agnes, he is survived by her. He is also survived by his girls, Joann Roberts, Janet Ragsdale, Joyce Maxey and Jaqi Bryson and spouses, Dr. Herbert Roberts and Mr. Doug Ragsdale and their families. He has 7 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson.
The family would like to express their deep gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers and care from so many duing his illness, especially the many friends at Mobberly Baptist Church and his beloved Sunday School Class, The Open Door. The doctors, entire staff at Longview Regional Medical Center and his "special girls", Toni McCoy and Tonia Anderson we thank for their love and encouragement in caring for him.
In lieu of flowers, Dr. Birkelund expressed a desire for donations to be given to The Gideon's International Association, P.O. Box 150004, Longview, TX 75615. 903-759-5835.
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