Albert L. Wessell

ATHOL - Albert L. Wessell, 89, of 23 Laurel St., Athol, died Saturday, February 14, 2009 in the Athol Memorial Hospital. He was born in Athol on January 25, 1920, the son of the late Fred and the late Anna (Homon) Wessell. He grew up in Athol and attended local schools. Mr. Wessell served in the United States Navy during World War II from 1943 to 1945 as Machinist's Mate Third Class. He received the World War II Victory Medal, the American Area Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon. He worked as a machinist for the former Union Twist Drill Corporation in Athol for 47 years, retiring in 1982. Mr. Wessell was a member of the Athol American Legion Post No. 102 and the Athol Rod and Gun Club. He was a highly skilled pitcher for various softball leagues. He was also formerly active in local hockey and volleyball leagues. He loved boating and fishing, and was an avid sportsman and a hunter. He leaves his wife of 67 years, Avis L. (Watson) Wessell; two daughters, Sharon King of Orange, Laurel L. Howard and her husband Roy of Orange; one granddaughter, Lisa Howard of Orange; one great-granddaughter, Samantha Howard of Orange; one uncle, Henry Homon of Athol; one brother-in-law, Gilbert Brown of PA; several nieces, nephews, and cousins, including Edward Wessell of Athol. He was predeceased by his sister, Lila Brown, who died in 1980. Graveside services in the Highland Cemetery of Athol will be at a date and time to be decided. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to Athol High School Scholarship Association, P.O. Box 338, Athol, MA 01331 or to the Athol Animal Control, 280 Exchange St., Athol, MA 01331. Fiske Funeral Home, 1356 Main Street, Athol, is directing arrangements. $(document).ready(function(){ });