Alvin J. Mentzel, 84, Was Navy Veteran, Accountant

Alvin J. Mentzel died March 27 after a brief illness, surrounded by family, friends and the extraordinary caregivers of Martha's Vineyard Community Hospital and Hospice of Martha's Vineyard. He was 84.

Al served as an officer in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific theatre during World War II. He then enjoyed a long career as a certified public accountant, joining the firm now known as Price Waterhouse Coopers in 1951; he became a partner in 1963 and retired from the company in 1984.

Upon retirement he and his wife, Hallie, moved to the Vineyard, where they both became active in many community organizations. Al served on several volunteer boards, including the Vineyard Conservation Society, Hospice of Martha's Vineyard and the Friends of Family Planning of Martha's Vineyard. He also worked tirelessly in the fund-raising campaign for the new West Tisbury Free Public Library.

He is survived by Hallie, to whom he was married for 55 years; his daughter, Andrea Uribe; former son in law, Carlos Uribe; his son, Anthony Mentzel, and daughter, Nina Mentzel.

Donations in his memory may be made to Hospice of Martha's Vineyard, or a charitable organization of your choice.

A gathering of friends and family will be held in the next few months, at a date and time to be scheduled.

Arrangements are under the care of Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs.