IN MEMORY HONOR ROLL

Gale Martin Alden was born on March 10, 1943 in Centerville, Iowa. The third of seven children, his childhood was a happy one on the farm where he loved sharing stories and chores with his siblings. His family was very close knit and his boyhood days carefree and happy. When Gale was in grade school, he and his family moved to Wilmington, Ohio where he played football and was a member of the band. He attended a summer music camp at Miami University where he met Janie Strohmanger. Ohio State University was his next stop where he reunited with Janie and they eventually married in 1964. He and Janie had three children: Michael, Jennifer and Sarah. Gale majored in agriculture economics and was accepted into both law school and the veterinary graduate program. Eventually, enrolling in the latter school. He left shortly to join the Army and was eventually deployed to Vietnam which would change the rest of his life. Upon his return from Vietnam, Gale, who dreamed of pursuing a life as a farmer, purchased his first farm. He also dabbled across several industries farm implement company, management at General Motors, financial advisor, and manager of the Wilmington College farms. In 1991, Gale married Ann Wolfe who brought to the marriage three daughters: Kelli, Cheri and Amy. In 1997, Gale and Ann left the farm and moved to Loveland, Ohio where they lived until his death. In 2012, Gale had a significant health event that transformed him. After battling alcoholism for most of his adult life, his last four years proved to be ones of redemption and clarity. He was able to participate more authentically with those in his life. He carried a lot of regrets for the things and relationships he lost along the way and was thankful and embraced the ones he was able to restore. Gale used phrases like “Keep the Shiny Side Up” for encouragement. So, in our last conversation with you: Gale, “Keep the shiny side up. Love you and may you rest in peace.