Carl Arnold Westerdahl (December 3, 1907 - February 12, 1995)

Carl and Bruce’s Father

Carl was 100% Svenska, a second generation American born to parents who  immigrated from Sweden and became citizens. He was descended from Vikings, but his only extended sea voyage was on an oil tanker as a cabin boy. Later, as a U.S. Navy Seabee in World War II, he was stationed in Bermuda, his only other trip out of the country.

His Viking spirit and sense of adventure were always part of Carl’s personality. Wherever he lived, he explored and found all the curious and peculiar features of back roads or city streets.

Until his eysight failed, Carl was an avid reader of newspapers, biographies and  travel books. A large atlas and a drawer full of maps was always by his side, and he knew what was in them.

A loving family man throughout his life, Carl never used profanity. He never gambled, and he used alcohol responsibly. He loved cigars and he loved his pipe.

People liked Carl. He had a warm smile, loved to make conversation with friends and relatives and loved to debate politics, particularly if the discussion was with a liberal Democrat.

Carl was devoted to his wife, Elizabeth, and he always supported his sons, Carl and Bruce in all the activities in which they were involved.  

At Carl’s Memorial Service, his son, Carl gave the eulogy. In his concluding remarks, he said Dad “taught me to take advantage of what life gives you, no matter what fate and fortune bring, to believe that each day is for living, learning, and loving, and to know that life is a wonderful romantic voyage of exploration.”