Alvin Turnie "Rusty" Stonefelt, 74, of Houston, TX, passed away on January 9, 2013 at his residence.

Born in Deadwood, SD on October 4, 1938, he was the son of the late Harold Turnie and Pearl Irene (Johns) Stonefelt.

He graduated from Lead High School in 1956 and from the University of Minnesota in 1960 with a BS in Music Education. Alvin received a full scholarship to the Manhattan School of Music and graduated in 1962 with a Master of Performance Degree. After graduation he performed with the Radio City Music Hall Symphony, the American Wind Symphony Orchestra and the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra.

Alvin's career then led him to Houston, Texas where he performed with the Houston Symphony Orchestra from 1967 to 1968. He fell in love with Houston and wanted it to become his adopted home. Alvin then changed careers and became Producer of News and Talk Shows for KTRH Radio, Channel 39 TV and KILT Radio in Houston, Texas. He was also the on-site radio broadcast producer for the University of Houston football games for 16 years. After retirement he continued to be a big fan of the University's football team, watching all their games.

Alvin was a member of Gethsemane United Methodist Church in Houston where he continued to be active in both the choir and handbell choirs.


Alvin is survived by numerous cousins and family scattered around the country.


A Memorial Service was held on Tuesday, January 15th at the Gethsemane United Methodist Church, Houston. A graveside service and interment will be held at 11am, Saturday, August 24, 2013 in the West Lead Cemetery, in Lead.