Earl Alsdurf

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Earl Wesley Alsdurf, 88, passed away on October 11, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. He was born on March 24, 1938, in a pecan orchard in Yeardley, California.

Earl lived a life defined by hard work, strength, service, and an unwavering love for his family. A quiet man who didn't need to say much, Earl was known for his no-nonsense nature, quick humor, and kind heart. He was someone people could count on, always willing to lend a hand and help anyone who needed it. Above all, he was fiercely protective of his girls, and the people he loved never had to wonder if he would stand up for them. 

Earl proudly served his country, first in the United States Navy and later in the Army Reserves, where he served as a crew chief on the CH-47 Chinook helicopter. His commitment to service continued in his civilian life, including his career with the Wichita Fire Department, where he formed lifelong friendships and lasting bonds with his fellow firefighters.

Earl was also dedicated to his education. In 1969, he graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering, combining his education with his commitment to protecting and serving others. Retirement never meant slowing down for Earl. He kept himself busy working for as long as he was able, always finding something that needed doing. He was the strongest man many of his family members ever knew, and he took pride in staying active and working out. Tough, determined, and hardworking, Earl approached life with the same strength and resolve that defined him throughout his years. 

He also had a love for sailing and a sense of humor that made him uniquely Earl. And, of course, there was his well-known fondness for Oreos wrapped in bologna—a combination that might surprise some, but was simply one of his own special quirks. Earl's greatest legacy is the family he built and the generations who will carry his memory forward. He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Connie; their children, Wesley (Laurie) and Stayce; three grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and his beloved cat, Nugget.

Earl will be remembered as a strong, kind, hardworking man who loved deeply, protected his family, helped others without hesitation, and never needed to be the loudest person in the room to make a difference.

His humor, his strength, his steady presence, and the love he gave his family will live on in the stories shared and the memories treasured for generations to come. He leaves behind a lifetime of love, lessons, laughter, and a family who will forever be grateful to have called him husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.