Albert McWhinney

Albert Al J. McWhinney79, of Clifton, AZ passed away August 30, 2014 in Tucson, AZ. Al was born in 1935 in Saratoga, WY to C.H. and Ruth Tobeck McWhinney. The family moved to Idaho sometime after Als birth and farmed for a living. His mother passed away when he was four years old during childbirth, leaving C.H. to care for four boys. At age 17 his dad signed papers for him to join the army during the Korean Conflict. After spending his time in the army he traveled around the country learning all kinds of trade to make a living, from working in farm fields to being a cook and dishwasher, butcher and finally a journeyman mechanic on heavy equipment. All eventually moved to Arizona working for Phelps Dodge Corp. in the truck shop. Al married Tamara Tammie Ferber Barry in 1987 in Morenci, AZ. All who knew him knew he called her wife number five and finally his soul mate. This was a marriage lasting 27 years. His major joy was the grandkids and great-grand kids which he spoiled on a regular basis. His pride was the home he and Tammie built on a bare piece of land during those 27 years and the little MGB car he fixed and made to run as well as the joy he felt when he joined our church and found the Lord again. Survivors include his wife, Tammie and children Rene, Cheryl, Butch, Terry, Patrick, Denise, Dwayne, Jerry, Carl, Clay and Clint, grandchildren locally are Brittney, Ariel, Brent and Tara and many other grandkids and great-grand kids scattered around the country. Al was preceded in death by his oldest son Brian, his parents C.H. & Ruth, and his three brothers. A Memorial celebration of Life will be held at the Church of New Beginnings Southern Baptist in Morenci on Saturday, September 13, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. Contributions may be given to the church. Services are under the direction of McDougals Caldwell Funeral Chapel. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.