Alvin Edgar Bost

Alvin Edgar Bost 88, of Goddard, Kansas, passed away in his home on March 11, 2018. He was born on January 14, 1930, in Gracemont, Oklahoma, to Arthur and Gertie Bost. After graduating high school, Al served in the U.S. Air Force. He met his true love, Laura Kennedy, at the local soda fountain in Winfield, Kansas. They were married on April 9, 1950, and he soon became a father to two daughters, Debbie and Vicki. Al had a flair for making sales, a keen sense of business and a knack for creative design. In 1977, Al and Laura launched their vinyl graphics company, Universal Products, from their home. The business quickly outgrew the house and moved into Goddard’s industrial district, where his talents led the company to worldwide success. Today, the company provides professional services for many world-renowned business clients and employs 200 people. Since its establishment, Universal Products has received many awards, including 1998’s Kansas Business Appreciation Award and an award from the Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing for manufacturing excellence. The company also supports several local community projects and programs, including the D.A.R.E. program. Al will be remembered for his business acumen, creativity, charm and humor. He loved directing the company he and Laura built. He was passionate about finances; he enjoyed investing in stocks and following the markets closely. He was also a master gardener and nurtured a variety of tropical plants. Al was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Laura, and his sisters, Essie Faye and Irene. He is survived by his sister, Dessie May, 98. His eldest daughter, Debbie, is married to Jim Morrison and they have two sons, Shelby and Max, they have a grandson, Kael, and a granddaughter, Montana. His youngest daughter, Vicki, is married to Mike McIlroy and they have three daughters, Jenny, Stephanie and Laura. Al’s funeral service will be 2 p.m., Friday, March 16, at Downing & Lahey Mortuary West in Wichita. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1820 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS 67214 and Encompass Home Health and Hospice, 245 N. Waco, Suite 125, Wichita, KS 67202.