Obituaries

Alvin R. Lubker

Photo of Alvin R. Lubker
Colonel Alvin (Al) R. Lubker, age 79, formerly of Jefferson City, died unexpectedly on November 13, 2012, in Scottsdale, Ariz. Al was born April 12,1933, in St. Louis. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951-1954. After leaving the service he was initially employed by the Mo. State Highway Patrol as a weight inspector. In 1955, he joined the Mo. State Patrol and was assigned to Troop C in St. Francois County; transferring to become the first resident trooper of Wash. County. He served as a Safety officer, Director of Public Information, rising to the rank of Superintendent from 1977 through 1981. He then returned to the ranks, retiring as a Captain in 1988. Al spent over 37 years working for an organization he truly loved. Sen. Edwin Dirck once stated "the most important things in Al Lubker's life were his family and the Mo. State Highway Patrol, not always in that order". During his tenure as Superintendent, his proudest accomplishment was his collaboration with Highway Patrol supporters in the formation of "The MASTERS", a benevolent organization designed to provide assistance to families of fallen troopers. He was a lifetime member of the Masonic Lodge and Scottish Rite and a member of the Order of Demolay, achieving the award of Legion of Honor. Al will be remembered as a creative and talented individual with the ability to solve any problem, fix any device; always making time for others. He was a unique communicator with the ability to make all feel comfortable and valued. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Marva (Mitchell) Lubker of Lee's Summit Mo.; a daughter and son-in-law, Drs. Julie and John Strickland of Leawood, Kan.; He was the devoted grandfather of three, Brian Strickland of Pasadena, Calif., Laura Strickland of Denver, Colo., and Emily Strickland of Leawood, Kan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Jewel (Scaggs) Lubker. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal services. Memorial contributions should be made to The MASTERS program 5287 Highway 67 North, Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901. www.themastersmo.org

Published November 17, 2012