Alfred Arkell Sisk

Published 10:04 am Wednesday, June 6, 2018

June 22, 1930–May 30, 2018

Alfred Arkell Sisk, born June 22, 1930, to Daisie and Roy Albert Sisk in Florence, CO, died May 30, 2018, his wife, and son by his side, at home in Prineville, OR.

Al was truly a family man. Married to the love of his life, Shirley, for 65 years, he was happiest when gathered with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Al’s definition of a “happy hour” was popping open a beer at the end of the day and playing show tunes on the piano. A talented musician, Al gave of his gift generously. He tickled the ivories with his combo, sang in the choir at the Methodist Church, and entertained the elderly with his favorite play list. During his retirement, Al was in several productions of the Sierra Repertory Theater, and delivered a particularly moving, “More I Cannot Give You,” as Arvide, in Guys and Dolls.

Al is remembered as an inspired math teacher. Earning his master’s in administration, he realized that his true calling was in the classroom, where he spent more than 30 years mentoring high school students at Sonora High School. Many have written of his patience and understanding and how he contributed to their success in college and beyond. His patience, however, did not extend to “things;” malfunctioning screen doors, restaurant lines, and computers were not easily tolerated.

Al served his country and his church. While he hated basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO, he allowed that the benefits of the military hospital, where his first child was born, and the GI Bill were two of the best things that ever happened to him. Deeply faithful, Al was a longtime member of the Methodist Church in Sonora and in Bend, after they moved to Prineville in 2000.

They became active members of First Presbyterian Church in Prineville a few years ago. His humility and kindness were matched by his gratitude, always, for the life and family he was given.

There never was a fish that Al did not want to catch, and his favorite fishing buddies were his kids and grandkids. The first catch was a memorable occasion for all, to be celebrated and hopefully, fried in a cast iron skillet over a campfire.

Al’s legacy lives on through his wife, Shirley; children, Pamela Armstrong (Richard), Megan Rau (Wes), Rand Sisk (Christopher); and grandchildren, Michael Ashley (Nathaniel), Jessica Andrews, Logan Rau (Charlotte) Bryan and Kate Armstrong, and AJ Sisk-Oliphant; and great-grandchildren Miles and Adelynne Ashley. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Roy Albert Jr; daughter, Polly; and grandson, Andrew.

The family thanks Dr. Williams and Partners In Care for their help and guidance.

A Celebration of his Life will be held, Saturday, June 9, 2018 at 10:00 amat First Presbyterian Church, Prineville, Oregon. All are welcome.