Albert David Pernichele left this world peacefully, surrounded by his family at home, on

Sunday, June 6, 2026. Al leaves a legacy of relentless curiosity, thoughtful deliberation,

incisive thinking, open-mindedness, generosity of spirit, a passion for the natural world,

and an avid interest in improving everything within his reach.

Albert was born January 25, 1936, In Staunton, Illinois, to Giovanni Pernichele and

Irene Lorenzetti Pernichele. The youngest of five siblings, he enjoyed an active

childhood hunting and fishing near the banks of the Mississippi River. Albert not only

helped to feed his family after the early loss of his father, he also developed a lifelong

love of the outdoors and fascination with nature.

Albert joined the army in 1954, serving two years as a sharp shooter and football player.

He earned his BA in Geology at the University of Illinois, his MS in Mining Engineering

from the University of North Dakota and pursued his PhD at the University of Utah. He

enjoyed a long career in mining engineering and management, innovating at Kennicott,

Dames and Moore, IT and Materials Recycling, as well as a lifetime of community

service.

At the University of North Dakota, Albert met the love of his life, Mary Ellen Stenso, and

they married in 1962, a union that would last over 63 years. Albert is survived by Mary

and their four children, Gwen (Patrick), Anne (Elliott), Matt (Kelly), and Gretchen

(Bryan), as well as five grandchildren, Max, Finn, Sophia, Henry and Tori. He instilled in

those who spent time with him a love of learning and a passion for making the world a

better place. Albert will also be remembered for his ceaseless love for animals, and

especially Golden Retrievers. He is survived by Blue, his 7 th Golden Retriever.

In 1998, Albert and Mary retired to the Bitterroot Valley to enjoy flyfishing, farming,

beekeeping and Montana’s spectacular beauty. Al quickly involved himself in the

community. Al served on the board of the Western Agricultural Research Center, The

Bitterroot Water Authority, Budwood Apple Growers, Bitterroot’s Own Rainbow Coalition,

and the Montana Beekeepers Association. He received an award from Trout Unlimited

for his water stewardship and dedication to conservation. Albert will also be

remembered for his remarkable green thumb, and his talent for tying innovative fishing

flies. And, of course, Albert led Frost Top Orchard to produce the best darn apple cider

we have ever known.

A community picnic will be held in Albert’s memory on June 28 from 1 to 4pm at

Summerdale Park in Corvallis. All are welcome! We look forward to meeting everyone

who touched Albert’s wonderful life.