Albert William Foster

Albert William "Bert" Foster, a devoted family man, gifted engineer, and passionate craftsman, peacefully passed away in his sleep of natural causes on May 8, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on June 5, 1929, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Bert was the beloved son of Frank and Anna Foster. Bert's life was defined by his unwavering dedication to his family, his pioneering work in automotive engineering, and his artistic pursuits. He shared a beautiful life with his first wife, Barbara L. Foster (nee McGrath), whom he met in high school. Together, they attended Albion College in Michigan, and graduated in 1951. Their union was blessed with two children, Brian and Bonnie, whom they raised in Royal Oak, Michigan. Bert furthered his education with an MA in Automotive Engineering and a BA in Business Administration, all while nurturing his young family. Despite the heart-wrenching loss of Barbara in 1974 due to heart complications, Bert found love again and married his second wife, Vivian Clark, in 1976. Vivian predeceased him, leaving behind cherished memories of their shared life. In his professional life, Bert was a master problem solver and a revered figure in the automotive industry. Over a distinguished career spanning more than four decades, he held pivotal roles with REO Motors, Chrysler, and Ford Heavy Truck. His tenure at Chrysler saw him attend the Chrysler Institute, while his leadership as Chief Engineer at Pioneer Engineering and MFG in Warren, Michigan, showcased his remarkable skills. Bert retired from Ford, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence in engine design and advanced automotive engineering. Bert's love for the arts, music, travel, language, and politics enriched his life and the lives of those around him. A man of many talents, he possessed an artist's eye and an extraordinary ability for wood carving and furniture-making. His meticulous recreations of period furniture were inspired by museum pieces, and he took great pride in the unique construction challenges each new project presented. Bert was a proud member of Phi Beta Kappa and a devoted parishioner of the First Presbyterian Church, first in Royal Oak and later in Dearborn, Michigan. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he found joy in teaching a men's bible studies class, sharing his wisdom and insights with others. Bert is survived by his loving son, Brian D. Foster and his wife, Loraine; his devoted daughter, Bonnie E. Walach and her husband, Mike; and his stepson, Dan Clark and his wife, Patsy. He leaves behind four cherished grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom will miss his warmth, humor, and generous spirit. A service to celebrate Bert's life will be held on his birthday, June 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Maple Hill Cemetery, located at 801 Tully Brown Dr., Charlotte, MI 48813. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor the memory of a man who touched so many lives with his kindness, intelligence, and creativity. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Bert's memory, as a tribute to his lifelong commitment to giving and sharing with others. Bert William Foster's legacy will be one of love, innovation, and artistry, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.