Allen Axelson Obituary
Allen L. Axelson
Born: November 16, 1941 in Thief River Falls, MN
Died: July 8, 2025 in Mesa, AZ
Allen Leroy "Al" Axelson
November 16, 1941 – July 8, 2025
Allen Leroy Axelson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away July 8, 2025, at age 83. Born in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, on November 16, 1941, to Axel Herman Axelson and Helen Christine (née Marquette) Axelson, Al's journey through life was marked by resilience, devotion, and a deep commitment to family and faith.
A Life Built on Family and Hard Work
Al grew up as the middle child among five siblings-Gene, Chris, Barb, and Diane-sharing a childhood filled with adventure and resourcefulness. From the early days in Minnesota where he worked in the bee yards at age 4 to the summers as a teenager working at his Uncle Richard Marquette's farm in Nebraska, Al learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and loyalty.
Despite humble beginnings-including living in converted chicken coops and homes with no indoor plumbing-Al's determination to improve his life and provide for his family never wavered.
A Brilliant Mind and a Distinguished Career
After high school in Rock Falls, Al's drive led him to DeVry Technical Institute in Chicago, where he graduated second in his class with an Associate's Degree in Applied Science (Electronic Technology). He worked nights as a janitor to support himself, a testament to his work ethic and commitment.
In 1965, Al began a remarkable 30-year career with AT&T Bell Laboratories, first in Holmdel, New Jersey, and then in Naperville, Illinois. Rising through the ranks from Computer Engineer to Technical Manager and Distinguished Member of Technical Staff, Al's contributions were significant and lasting. He was granted a patent in 1969 for innovations that improved telephone call switching systems. Al's colleagues respected him for his expertise, integrity, and collaborative spirit.
A Devoted Husband and Father
On April 25, 1965, Al married his high school sweetheart, Joy Elaine Loos, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Rockford. Their partnership, built on faith, friendship, and mutual respect, spanned 57 years of love and commitment. They adopted and raised two sons, Mark and Eric.
Faith, Service, and a Life Well-Lived
Al's faith was the foundation of his life. He and Joy were active members of St. John Lutheran Church in Wheaton, Illinois, and later Trinity Lutheran Church in Fountain Hills, Arizona. Together, they devoted countless hours to outreach and evangelism, helping congregations across the country share the Gospel.
Al was honest, humble, and gentle. He was known for his patience, generosity, and steadfastness. He never raised his voice, never swore, and always led by example. His children and grandchildren admired his wisdom, sense of humor, and quiet strength.
A Legacy of Love and Gratitude
Al's life was rich. He loved traveling with Joy, woodworking, gardening, computers, and nature. He was the family's fixer and mentor, always there with a helping hand or a listening ear.
Celebrating a Life Well-Lived
Al's legacy is one of faithfulness, love, and a life lived for others. His family finds comfort in knowing he is reunited with Joy in the presence of their Savior. As Al often prayed and hoped, may his family be together again in heaven one day.
Al is survived by his sons Mark (Anna) Axelson and Eric Axelson (Regina Ward); grandchildren Liahona Barraclough, Saige Bearnson, Eve Axelson, Jinger Axelson, Marnae Axelson, Rhemadee Axelson and Lillian Axelson; siblings Gene Axelson, Chris Davis, Barb Murnane, and Diane Marley; and a large extended family and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joy Axelson, and his parents Helen and Hiram DeBord and Axel Herman Axelson.
A graveside service will be held at Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling, Illinois, on Friday, June 8th at 11:30 AM. Donations may be made to Messiah Lutheran Church in Sterling, Illinois.
Published by Sauk Valley News on Jul. 31, 2025.