Earl Gerald Stendahl, age 97, of Whitehall, died on Thursday, September 13, 2012 in the Tri-County Memorial Hospital in Whitehall.

Earl was born on November 26, 1914 in Whitehall to Theodore and Ella (Knudtson) Stendahl Sr. He married Orpha A. Sheffield on June 17, 1966 in Whitehall. Orpha preceded Earl in death on September 23, 2004.

Earl enjoyed his life as an electrician and also worked many years as a custodian for the senior apartments and Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Whitehall. Earl proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Force during World War II. A highlight of his life was the opportunity to attend the Freedom Honor Flight to Washington DC with his great-nephew at his side.

Earl was a member of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, the Whitehall-Pigeon Rod & Gun Club, the American Legion Hutchins-Stendahl Post #191 and served many years as president of the Whitehall Electric Commission. Earl Loved his country, community and family. He was a man who enjoyed nature and hunted small game, deer and loved to fish and read. Earl enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews and especially looked forward to family reunions where he could catch up on family happenings. Earl's final years were spent at the Grand View Care Center in Blair where he received compassionate care and truly felt at home.

Earl is survived by many nieces, nephews and numerous friends.
In addition to his parents and wife, Earl was preceded in death by four brothers, Omar, Ivan, Harold and Theodore Jr. and a sister, Thelma Breska.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 19, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church with burial in the Lincoln Cemetery both in Whitehall. Pastor Kris Fahey will officiate.

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 18, 2012 from 4-7 p.m. in the Jack Funeral Home in Whitehall and also one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.