Alfred Paul Adams, 93, of Iron River, WI, passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Tamarack Health in Ashland, WI. He was born in Toledo, OH, on February 8, 1932.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Maybelle (Johnson) Adams.
He leaves behind his wife, Martha "Marty" Adams, of 51 years; sister, Louann Bressler of Elkhart, Indiana; son, Russell Adams of Elkhart, Indiana; daughters, Stacy Grove of Superior, WI, and Michelle Adams of Elkhart, Indiana; 11 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
Al’s love of the outdoors began when his family moved to S. Shore Drive, Elkhart, IN, in 1941. His father, Vern, purchased him a used boat for 5 dollars and fixed it up. His father used a rope to tether it to shore, to which he would add length each year. Al and Louann were able to go out as far as the length of the rope. As Al got a little older, he would take his bike and go hunting. Often, he would bring his first beloved beagle, Lucky. Many beagles would follow in Lucky’s pawprints in the years to come.
Al had a genuine love for classical music. He played the clarinet in grade school and continued into the high school band. While still a teenager, he, his father, and his cousin Bob Adams would go to Iron River to fish. After graduating, he got a summer job in Iron River so he could stay all summer and do outdoor activities in his downtime. In July 1955, in Elkhart, IN, he married his first wife, Carol Andrews, and in the following years, they had three children together. During this time, he owned a dry clean. In 1973, he married his wife Marty and would eventually settle down in Iron River, the place he loved so dearly.
Al, or Little Al, as he was known around the town of Iron River, was loved by everyone who knew him. While working for the NFO for many years, he made several trips between MN, MI, and WI. He worked at the local motel and would meet people from all walks of life. Many of these guests turned into long-lasting friendships with many fishing adventures. After retiring for good, he often ventured around the vast area to help his neighbors and friends who farmed. From feeding calves to making hay to offering advice on animal health, he was always available to help his farmer friends. Al would never turn down a cup of coffee, a cookie, a card game, or a conversation with a friend.
Al loved his home and property. His flower gardens were always noticed by those who drove by. He would spend many hours keeping up his lawn, weeding, and watering his flowers. Then, he would sit on his front porch and admire the beauty and peace surrounding him.
This man who shared his loving spirit with everyone around him will be incredibly missed. He left a mark on our hearts that will forever be cherished.
Should friends desire, sympathies can be sent to Marty Adams at 5790 Bayfield Line Rd, Iron River, WI, 54847.
A Celebration of Al's Life will be held from 12:00 - 4:00 PM on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Iron River Community Center, 8275 E Mill St, Iron River, WI 54847.
The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5th Street in Superior, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.
Iron River Community Center
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