Al (Alvin Richard Rendfleisch) passed peacefully in April, 2020 at the age of 88. Al was born in Barrhead, Alberta to Karl and Cornelia Rendfleisch, the youngest of five children. He had three brothers, Edwin, William, and Arthur, and one sister, Wanda. They all predeceased him.
He grew up on the family farm just south of Barrhead, where he attended grades 1 to 8 at the one-room Pembina Elementary School and completed grades 9 to 12 at Barrhead High School.
The Northern Alberta Railway ran through Barrhead, and Al started working with the railway in 1950. He became a Station Agent and Telegrapher. When the railway started closing stations, he and his family moved to Burnaby, BC.
In 1965, while working full-time, Al became a Charter Student at Simon Fraser University to obtain his teaching degree. He legally simplified his surname so that it was easier for students. He loved being an elementary school teacher for 20 years with Surrey School District #36, retiring in 1989.
After retirement, Al maintained his connection with youngsters as a Mall Santa for 20 years. He also worked as a movie extra. His community involvement included many years with the White Rock Lions Club, White Rock/Crescent Beach Little League and several other minor and major sporting events. Al also had a lifelong love for music and was a talented singer and guitar player.
Al was first married for 22 years to Eileen and they had 4 children, Linda, Janet, Brian and Cathy. They divorced and Al later met Barbara. A blended family was born and Al became a beloved step-father, grandfather, great grandfather and uncle to Barbara's family. They had a happy life together for over 40 years, traveling extensively, enjoying live performances and relishing in family occasions.
Al will be missed immensely. A memorial service will be held when gatherings are again permitted.