Alvin Frederick Blohm, 92, Velva, died on Wednesday, October 22, 2008, in a Minot Hospital.

Alvin was born in Rheine, ND on May 28, 1916 to Frederick and Mamie (Miller) Blohm. Alvin spent a great deal of his growing years on his Grandpa Miller's farm south of Beulah before embarking on a traveling venture with his family throughout the states of Montana, Idaho and Washington. In 1934 Alvin joined the Civilian Conservation Corps where he learned many skills that would follow him throughout his working days. During his nearly 3-year stint in the CCC's Alvin went many places throughout Arkansas and North Dakota.

On June 30, 1940 Alvin married Phyllis Ann Rolene, in Velva, ND. Two sons, Alvin E. Blohm, and Curtis L. Blohm, were later born to Alvin and Phyllis.

In 1938 Alvin began his long career in the coal mining business. He joined Truax-Trauer at the Velva mine and the mining camp, which was the location of their first home. In 1950 Alvin and Phyllis moved to the Truax-Trauer Custer mine near Garrison where he was General Foreman until 1956. During the time at the Velva and Custer mines Alvin pitched in to raise their two sons and pass on his skills and work ethics along with his love of hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities. After downsizing of personnel in 1956, Alvin went to work in construction as well as the Vix coal mine for several years. In 1959 he purchased a small farm in the Ruso area that became their special home for many years. In 1970 Alvin returned to the coal mining business as a shovel operator for Consolidation Coal Company at the Velva Mine, then later transferred to Consolidation Coal's Glenharold Mine near Stanton, ND where he worked as a welder, mechanic and dragline operator until his retirement in 1978.

Alvin retired onto the small farm that also became his "special place in the country." During his retirement years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons, grandsons, friends, and relatives. He enjoyed visiting, and playing cards with friends and neighbors, as well as helping them out with his welding and mechanical skills. Alvin also enjoyed sharing his catch from his many fishing trips with his friends and neighbors. He will be dearly missed by his sons, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, as well as his card playing companions at Valley View Manor.

Surviving family includes: Sons: Alvin E.(Thelma) Blohm, Center, ND, and Curtis L. Blohm, Bismarck, ND; Grandchildren: Sally Jons, Wayne Blohm, LeeAnne Blohm, and Kelly Blohm; Great Grandchildren: Brandy Isaak, Dawn Isaak, Jessica Jons, McKenzie C-Blohm, Amber Hall, Jenna Hall, and Travis Jons; Great-Great Grandchildren: Dominic Isaak, Katlin Jons, and Gage Jons; Brothers: Raymond, Louis, and Benjamin Blohm; Sisters: Edna Lucera, Wilma Inghram, Luverne Clark and Lois Barnhardt; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Phyllis Ann, daughter-in-law, Mary Anne Blohm, brothers, Lester, Robert, Roy, and Walter Blohm, sisters, Viola Sleighbough and Gertie Archer, and great grandson, Curtis Greggory.

Funeral: Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot;
Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens, Minot, ND;
Visitation: Monday from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home.
Memorials are preferred to Valley View Manor, Velva.