FINLEY, Albert Clinton May 10, 1923 - February 23, 2009

Albert "Al" Clinton Finley lost his battle with congestive heart disease February 23, 2009. Al, 85, passed away peacefully at Spokane, Washington's Waterford Retirement Residence. Al was born Albert Clinton Long in Dayton, Ohio. After the death of his natural mother, he was adopted by family friends, Thomas and Gertrude Finley, of Butte, Montana. A 1941 graduate of Ennis (Montana) High School, Albert attended Montana State University in Bozeman, before enlisting in the US Marine Corp, and serving his country in the South Pacific during World War II. Al returned to Bozeman to complete his undergraduate degree. He then answered a call to fill an emergency teaching vacancy in the small Montana farming town of Choteau. Here he met and married Pauline Lyon on August 21, 1948. The marriage produced three children and exemplified the embodiment of commitment and devotion. Teaching was, for Albert, more than just a vocation. It was an avocation, a calling, his passion. His skills were further honed by two master's degrees. During 40 years as an educator in Montana and Washington, Al inspired his students and aspiring teachers. It was always his aim to challenge students to achieve their academic best. Albert's vitality continues to multiply in these lives and the lives of those they touch, as a living memorial. Mr. Finley's influence extended beyond the classroom to civic, philanthropic and humanitarian contributions including Lion's Club International, Manito United Methodist Church, Meals on Wheels, and Northwest Volksport's Society. An avid sports fan, Mr. Finley was an established fixture at the Washington State B Basketball Tournament gate for over 20 years. Al participated in the first Bloomsday run and did so every year, excluding the last two. In addition, Al was often an anonymous benefactor to friends and family during times of need, exemplifying the gift of giving. Al and Pauline enjoyed 20 years of retirement, traveling extensively in the US and abroad. Al was particularly proud that he and Pauline had walked in all 50 states. Albert actively pursued his life-long hobby of stamp collecting, developing an extensive international collection. He enjoyed giving excess produce to others from the abundant harvests of a large garden. An enthusiastic correspondent, Albert excelled at the "lost" art of letter writing. Mr. Finley is remembered for his keen wit and effervescent personality.  Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, March 7, 2009 at Manito United Methodist Church, 3220 S. Grand Blvd in Spokane and at 3:30 pm, Sunday, March 8, 2009 at Waterford South Hill, 2929 S. Waterford Drive in Spokane. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made, in his name, to the charity of the donor's choice. Those who wish to view an Everlasting Memorial for Albert and add their tributes online may go to: www.mem.com. The greatest tribute you could pay to Albert Clinton Finley would be to emulate the ever present theme of his life by investing yourself in the lives of those you love and in the lives of young people, our future and hope. Sincere appreciation is expressed for the kindness and love shown during these last few months by friends, the staff at Waterford skilled nursing and Spokane Hospice. His life may be gone but the light of his spirit, joy and influence shine on.