Ernest Arnold Alger

Ernest Arnold Alger, peacefully passed away early Saturday morning, October 15, 2016. Ernie was born October 8, 1930 in Seattle, WA to Phillip and Ethel Alger. After graduating from Garfield High School, Ernie attended Edison Technical School, where he received a Certificate of Completion in electronics. In 1955, after serving 3 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, he married Suzanne Hibler and had three children. While raising his family, Ernie worked at KING T.V. and the university of Washington Research Center, Seattle. Ernie received his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Washington in 1968 and began his career with IBM as a research scientist, where he worked until his retirement in 1991.
As an enthusiastic gardener, stained glass and woodworking artisan, fisherman and hunter, Ernie had many hobbies. Ernie enjoyed both his heirloom apple orchard as well as his bountiful vegetable garden. The orchard was his pride and joy, producing many varieties of specialty apples. He also perfected the art of stained glass, creating many original pieces, one of which was displayed at Fort Walla Walla. Salt water fishing with his family was a favorite pastime. Hunting with his son and grandsons in the foothills of the Blue Mountains was also always a special occasion.
Ernie is survived by his second wife of 19 years, Merna Alger, with whom he shared much joy and happiness. Together they enjoyed many of the same hobbies and activities. He is also survived by his Sister Sally Alger, his three children; Nanette Tener, Rodney Alger and Melissa Gamble. His Step children, Robert Howard, Leesa Samson, Diana Chinn and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ernie lived a full and enjoyable life with many happy memories of family and friends. He loved to share his vast wealth of knowledge with his family and friends. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of Ernie’s life will be held Saturday, November 5, 2016 from 3:00 till 6:00PM at the Marcus Whitman Hotel. I lieu of flowers, the family requests that remembrances be made to Walla Walla Community Hospice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder St., Walla Walla, WA 99362