Alvin Louis “Shorty” Carsten, 88 of Springfield, was born October 24, 1921 in Highlandville, Mo., and passed away Monday, August 9, in Cox South Hospital. He served in the U.S. Army, Pacific Theater, was a Battlefield Veteran of World War II and a Bronze Star Recipient along with receiving many other World War II honors. He was the sole owner of Carsten Auto Glass for 36 years before selling the business and retiring in 1982.
He was united in marriage to Paula (Kynion) Carsten on June 3, 1977 in Silver Dollar City.
Shorty was a member of the First Baptist Church of Springfield and enjoyed watching Cardinal baseball, listening to Bluegrass music and fishing. He was an avid quail hunter for many years.
He was preceded in death by his father, “Dutch” Carsten; mother, Ermal Carsten Hood; brothers, Herb and Bobby Carsten.
He is survived by his wife, Paula; stepchildren, Jack and Stacey Thurman of Springfield, Mo., and Brad and Janis Brown of Ozark, Mo.; four grandchildren, Bayli, Bennett and Madison Thurman, and Alex Brown; sisters and brothers-in-law, Dorothy Phillips of California, Lew Daly of Arizona, Jean Nichols, Jerry Kynion, and Frank and Kei Kynion, all of Florida, and Alma Carsten of Springfield, Mo.; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral service will be held in the First Baptist Church on Saturday, August 14, at 9 a.m. Burial will follow in Eastlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. in Greenlawn Funeral Home East on Friday, August 13, 2010. The family suggests memorial donations be made to the Missouri Veterans MVH Assistance League, Mt. Vernon, Mo.
Shorty’s family rejoices in knowing that he is with the Lord today. His outgoing personality was evident in his cheerful smile, twinkling blue eyes and his “Yes Sir, Buddy” greeting that he extended to everyone.