Former Minster resident Alvin Joseph Giere, 73, of Haines City, Fla., died March 11, 2007, in Winter Haven, Fla., due to heart failure.

He was born Dec. 31, 1933, in Maria Stein, to Joseph and Veronica Brackman Giere. He was married to Sharon Ann Ward for 52 years; she survives in Haines City.

Also surviving are a son, Michael (Kathleen), Marysville; a brother, Edmund (Jeanette), Maria Stein; a sister, Loretta Froning, Minster; a sister-in-law, Verdella, Minster; and a grandchild.

Deceased are two brothers, Otto and Aloys; three sisters, Cordula Post, Regina Brush and Julianna Gehert.

He retired Dec. 31, 1995, from Minster Machine Co., Minster. He also worked at Universal Studios, Orlando, Fl., for the city of Winter Haven, Fla., at spring training with the Cleveland Indians and for the Polk County Elections. He was a U.S. Army veteran.

No services were held. Arrangements are being handled by Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Winter Haven, Fla.

Condolences can be sent to www.oakridgefuneralcare.com.