Albert Schmidt of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Elsa Maria Theresia (nee Zieher), passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, March 6, 2010 at the age of 81 years at the Chinook Regional Hospital.

Along with his loving wife of 49 years, Elsa, Albert is survived by his sister Herta of South Africa, his daughter Angela (Kenneth) Rodzinyak, sons Karl (Shauna), Roland (Elaine) and Lothar, and six granddaughters: Kristyn, Daphne, Celina, Jordyn, Mackenzie and Hannah.

Albert was born October 1, 1928, in Albota, Besserabia, Romania, to Johannes Schmiedt, village blacksmith, and Magdalena (nee Stickel). Albert's childhood years were spent in Besserabia with his extended family. The Second World War brought about relocation to his ancestral home of Germany, where as a young man, he worked in the forest industry in the Black Forest and also completed an apprenticeship as an industrial painter.

While working at Kavo in Biberach, Albert met the love of his life, Elsa. In 1958, Albert emigrated to Canada, settling in Milk River, Alberta, close to his uncle Fred and family. He worked as a painter for two years before bringing his Goldschatz, Elsa, to Canada. They were married in Milk River on August 3, 1960, and relocated to Lethbridge in 1963.

Albert worked at the Lethbridge Brewery for 27 years and retired at the age of 63. Albert was an active member in the German Canadian Club for many years, where he sat on the executive, sang in the Male Choir, and enjoyed playing Skat, winning several championships. Many will remember Albert for his presence on soccer fields and at ice arenas where he was an avid fan of his boys' passions.

Throughout his life, Albert was a loving father, devoted husband and loyal friend to many. He will be dearly missed.

Family and friends may pay their respects from 1:00 to 2:00 pm, prior to the service.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday March 11, 2010 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4th Street South, Lethbridge, with Folker Stanke, officiating.

Interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge, Alberta.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 210D, 12 A St. N., Lethbridge, AB T1H 2J1, or to a charity of one's choice.