Alvin L. Pinkerton

Alvin Lee Pinkerton, 76, of Auburn, passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, with his daughters by his side.

Alvin was born on June 10, 1948, in Auburn, to the late Norman and Doris Pinkerton. A 1967 graduate of Waterloo High School, he was a proud member of Future Farmers of America. Growing up, Al worked alongside his father on the family farm and apple orchard.

In 1973, Alvin married Terri (Bush) Furnish, and together they had two daughters, Chelsea (Pinkerton) Handshoe and Kelly Pinkerton. In 1977, Alvin established Alv’s Building, where he became known as a master craftsman. His business, which started humbly, grew into a respected company through Alvin’s hard work and dedication. He had an extraordinary ability to turn a simple vision, sometimes sketched on a napkin, into something beautiful and lasting.

While his true passion was his work, Alvin also enjoyed hunting, golfing, and gardening. His culinary talents became legendary in his later years—he baked delicious zucchini bread, canned sauerkraut, and perfected pie baking during his reluctant retirement.

Hunting was one of Alvin’s lifelong passions. He enjoyed trapping, coyote hunting with his dogs, and spending time in the deer stand, often using it as an excuse to miss family events. His home was filled with hunting trophies that showcased his love for the sport. He was also a long-time member of Garrett Country Club for over 50 years.

Known for his sweet tooth, Alvin had an endless supply of snacks and was notorious for sneaking treats late at night.

Alvin never met a stranger and could always be found catching up with familiar faces wherever he went. Breakfast at the local truck stop or diner was a daily ritual, followed by visits to his property, where he mowed, cut firewood, or worked in the garden. Some of his best moments were shared with his family—watching his grandchildren play soccer, witnessing their first hunting experiences, and cheering them on at the county fair.

Alvin is survived by his daughters, Chelsea Handshoe and her husband, Tyson, of Auburn, and Kelly Pinkerton and her partner, Roger New Jr., of Garrett; grandchildren, Taylor Handshoe, Blake Handshoe, and Easton Handshoe; siblings, Dewane Pinkerton of Medford, Oregon, Carol Forbes of Fort Wayne, and Phil Pinkerton of Auburn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Doris Pinkerton; brother, Donald Pinkerton; sister, Linda Colbart; and a niece, Shallon Bush.

At Alvin’s request, no services will be held, and his daughters are honoring his wishes.

Memorial donations may be made to DeKalb FFA or DeKalb High School Soccer to support the girl’s and boy’s programs. Any checks will need to made out to the DeKalb Central Foundation and please make a note of where the money is to go in the memo line. Any donations may be mailed to or dropped off at the funeral home.

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