Al Byron Marlar

Al Byron Marlar was born on April 16, 1930 to B. A. (Sonny) and Joy M. Marlar in Martinez, California. While yet an infant, he moved with his family back to Oklahoma, and he liked to claim this state as his birthplace. Al completed the 8th grade in Claremore, Oklahoma where he played baseball and other school sports. In 1946 the family moved to Carlsbad, NM so that his father, Sonny could pursue a job with Int. Minerals and Chemical Company. By this time, there was a little sister, Sarah. As their Dad pursued work to care for the family, their Mother, Joy, sought out a church home. She found Hillcrest Baptist Church were Al was always a member. He attended and graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1950. He lettered in football and track. Soon after graduation, Al joined the U. S. Navy. He completed basic training in San Diego, California and was assigned to the USS Conserver during the Korean conflict. He was on board less than a year when he was wounded aboard ship. The anchor chain broke, flew up and wrapped around his leg and crushed it. He was transferred to a hospital ship and transported to Japan for surgery. During this time, the World Heavyweight Boxer, Joe Lewis, came through the hospital to see the wounded servicemen. Al was always proud of the picture of Lewis signing his cast. Soon after the initial surgery, Al was moved to the U.S. Naval Air Station and Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas. Numerous additional surgeries were performed there in an effort to save his leg. Finally, in 1953 Al was granted an honorable discharge and returned to Carlsbad. While still re-cooperating, he was involved in a terrible car accident near Kermit, Texas. Recovering from the injuries took well over 2 years, and left him with injuries that would haunt him forever. Al attended New Mexico School of Mines in Socorro as well as trade schools in Okmulgee, Oklahoma and Elkhart, Indiana. Finally in the 1960's Al returned to Carlsbad and was employed at Carlsbad Caverns National Park and the U. S. Post Office. In 1992 following the death of his mother, Al moved to Galveston, Texas to be near his sister and brother-in-law. He remained there until the couple retired here in Carlsbad, at which time he, too returned. His most recent residence was at the Beehive Home. He was the first resident, arriving as soon as the facility opened. He loved Beehive and all the staff, CNA's and caregivers. Al was preceded in death by his parents, Sonny and Joy Marlar and an infant brother, Ray Dale Marlar. He is survived by his sister, Sarah Keith and husband, Jack of Carlsbad, NM; nephew, Jon Winters and wife, Jamie of Houston, TX; nephew, Andy Winters and wife, Stephanie of Conroe, TX; nephew, Jeff Keith and wife, Jeanie of Uhland, TX; niece, Jacki Keith of Baycliff, TX; niece, Judi Harmon and husband, Mark of Spring, TX, several cousins, great-nieces and nephews and a host of friends. Much of Al's life was a painful experience with limited mobility and low vision. In spite of these disabilities, he managed to keep a good attitude, stay positive and was always ready to repeat a joke...many times over. He will always be remember for the little gifts he handed out, usually a ball pint pen, key chain or tiny pocket knife. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, August 13, 2009 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Denton-Wood Funeral Home. The Funeral Service and celebration of Al's life will be on Friday, August 14, 2009 at 10:00 AM at Denton-Wood Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Ed Meyers officiating. Pallbearers will be Jon Winters, Billy Keunzler, Ed MacAnally, Roy Harris, Tracy Hinson and Bill Brooks. Interment will follow at the Carlsbad Cemetery with Military Honors provided by Carlsbad Veteran Honor Guard. Should friends desire, memorials might be made to The Beehive Home, 801 West Cherry Lane, Carlsbad, NM 88220. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.dentonwood.com.