With immense sorrow and heavy hearts, we convey the painful news of the passing of our beloved Al Neil—cherished Father, Grandfather, Husband, Uncle, Son, Brother, and Friend.
Al departed from this world on November 22, 2022, following a stroke. He leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by his
devoted wife of 42 years, Carol, their children Jen (Jeremy) and Chris (Nicole), and his beloved grandchildren—Sydnee, Griffin, Luke, and Noah. Al’s loving mother, Esther, and his brothers Joe (Ginette), Dan (Trish), and Gary (Beryl), along with sister-in-laws Betty and Theresa (Doug) and numerous nieces and nephews, mourn his loss. He joins his late father, Carmen, mother-in-law Lena, and brother Bob in eternal rest.
Al was a man who effortlessly won the affection of all those who knew him. His warm presence, engaging conversations, and infectious laughter endeared him to everyone he encountered. In 1974, Al relocated to Alberta, where fate introduced him to Carol in 1975. Their union in June 1980 marked the beginning of a remarkable journey, as they built a life together in Sherwood Park, raising their family and forging cherished memories.
A passionate fisherman, Al’s love for fishing was a defining aspect of his life. His sheer dedication to spending a day on the water knew no bounds. Following retirement, Al found joy working at Cabelas, where his role in the fishing department never felt like work. Countless summers were devoted to camping and fishing, and he derived great pleasure from playing cribbage, always making time for a game or two. Al held a special place in his heart for dogs, and only a week after his passing, his loyal companion, Ruby, joined him in the beyond. As a family, we find solace in the belief that they are now reunited.
Above all, Al held family in the highest regard, extending unwavering support and
selflessness to those he loved. Expressing his affection through actions rather than words, he was ever-present for his family—offering rides, attending sporting events and dance shows, sharing family dinners, and spending quality time with his adored
grandchildren, often engaging in lively tickle fights that brought smiles and laughter to all. Furthermore, Al shared a remarkable connection with Santa Claus in the North Pole, eagerly assisting him during the holiday season. His dedication to this cause was evident in the extensive preparations he made throughout the year.
Al’s absence leaves an indelible void in the hearts of all who cherished him. The family
extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at the U of A Neuro ICU who cared for Al during his final moments. A celebration of Al’s life will take place on Sunday, June 25th, 2023, at the Ardrossan Senior Centre (21 Queen Street Ardrossan, AB) from 1-4 in the afternoon. A brief program will commence shortly after one, followed by an
invitation for all to stay and partake in Al’s favorite card game, Cribbage. In lieu of
flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to Santa’s Anonymous.
Remembering Al, a true people person who found joy in life’s simple pleasures, we
encourage you to honor his memory by gathering together. Play a few rounds of cards, savor a refreshing beer with clam, indulge in some mouthwatering BBQ ribs, relish a
generous bowl of ice cream, and venture out onto the water to reel in a catch. In these moments, as you miss him the most, may Al’s spirit reside within you, bringing solace and preserving the everlasting bond you shared.
I cherished the time I spent with Al His memory will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked and fished alongside such a wonderful person.
Al was an exceptional individual, and his absence will undoubtably leave, avoid in the hearts of all of those who knew him and I extend my deepest condolences.
I had the privilege of working with Al for numerous holiday seasons. He had such joy and enthusiasm, and possessed the unique ability to bring happiness and laughter to everyone he encountered. He made every season, memorable and a magical experience. He truly embodied the holiday spirit and will forever be “my” Santa.
Beyond our professional relationship, Alan and I formed deep friendship, spending countless hours, swapping stories and people watching. His infectious laughter and kind nature made every moment in his company delight. I especially cherished our phone calls, between the holiday seasons, where we would catch up and share the joys and challenges of our lives. Those conversations are truly cherish moments, and I deeply miss them.
It was a pleasure and honour to know Al. I enjoyed playing crib with him, fishing and long conversations. He is dearly missed.
I worked with Al for about a year at Cabelas in the fishing department. He was such a kind, fun loving man. Whenever I saw the two of us on a schedule together, I knew it was going to be a good shift. Between the constant cracking jokes, and passing his wisdom onto me, I am thankful to have known him. My condolences go to the family, he was a truly special man
Al was like a third grandfather to me. An absolutely amazing person who had the beat stories and jokes. Working with him was always such a treat. We will be greatly missed.
Truly was a pleasure having the opportunity to work with Al even if it was a short period time. I hope he is fishing in the great beyond with his pal Ruby. Condolences to the family for the loss.
It’s truly hard to express the sorrow I feel for the loss of Al. He was an extraordinary man, lighting up our workdays with his infectious smile and hearty laugh. His willingness to lend a hand, always accompanied by that warm, grandfatherly smile, will be deeply missed.
Al wasn’t just a colleague, he was a genuine friend, who had the unique ability to brighten each day with his humor and kind-heartedness. His memory will remain in our hearts, as a friend who is missed but never forgotten.
In my career, I have seldom met a man as remarkable as Al. The privilege of working alongside him was one I will always cherish. He embodied the best qualities we all aspire to.
Al, thank you for all the joy you brought to us at Cabela’s. Your stint as our beloved Camo Santa, complete with your delightful smile and clever jokes, is an unforgettable memory. The warmth you added to our Cabela’s family is irreplaceable. I am sending love and remembering you fondly.
He always brought had a smile and a laugh at work that could brighten the day, such a kind soul
Al was such a joy to work with. He lit up every day with a smile and a laugh. Anytime he could help, he would do so with that grandfatherly smile. He will be missed.
It was an absolute pleasure working with Al. He had the capability to make everyday better as a genuine human and humor. You will be missed but never forgot friend.
Al treated me like family. Not only did I refer to him as an uncle but he was part of my family . He taught me how to fish and was always able to make me smile. I will never forget the time and moments I was able to share with him. Until we meet again.
Best man I have ever had the privilege of working with
Thank you for all the laughs you gave us while we worked together at Cabela’s, Al. You made a wonderful Camo Santa, and your smile and jokes were always wonderful. You sure are missed. Sending lots of love from your Cabela’s family.
Sincere condolences in the loss of Al. May your cherished memories fill your hearts as you go forward.