December 25, 1934 - January 15, 2022
In Loving Memory ~
Al passed away early in the morning of January 15, 2022 with his wife and best friend, Nicole, by his side.
He was predeceased by his sisters Sharon and Marlene, brother Dwayne, and his son, Daniel.
Dad is survived by his loving wife of 62 1/2 years, Nicole, daughter Joanne, grandchildren Natasha (and his "sweetheart", great-granddaughter Mia), Zac (Lisa), Taryn, and his son, Steven (Cynde). He is also survived by his sister, Pat, brother-in-law Reg, and nieces and nephews.
Dad was born in Melfort, Sask. and as a youngster moved with his family to Chilliwack, B.C. After graduating high school, he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force as a mechanic and travelled the world.
He was stationed in Grostenquin, France in 1957 when he met a pretty French girl named Nicole. They quickly realized that what they had was special and married in 1959. Dad was shortly transferred to Comox, B.C. and the family happily settled there. Dad enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and the good friends he made in the air force.
When he was scheduled to be transferred to Cold Lake, Alb. in 1972, Dad and Mom decided they did not want to leave the Island. Dad retired from the RCAF, moved the family to Campbell River and joined Elk Falls Mill as a stationary engineer in the Steam Plant.
Dad retired from the Mill in 1990 and he and mom enjoyed 25 years as Snowbirds, travelling each winter to their trailer in El Centro, CA. They enjoyed the friendships of the close community there, and Dad played golf every day, winning many tournaments.
Always active, Dad enjoyed gardening and sharing this passion with his daughter and great-granddaughter. He also loved coaching young people in baseball and hockey, and the senior men's slow-pitch team. He curled in the winter and went fishing in the summer for as long as he was able to do so.
Dad was a kind, loving man who treasured his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
There will be no service as per Dad's request. A special thank you to Dr. Prinsloo and the staff at both the Campbell River Hospital and Discovery Harbour Care Home. Your care and kindness was much appreciated.
Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts.