Albert Schneider

1932 ~ 2015

Albert Schneider, of Lethbridge passed away peacefully on April 7, 2015 at the age of 83 years

Al was raised in southern Alberta and spent most of his life in Lethbridge. From driving truck when he was only 14 with Plunket & Savage, to selling autos at the river bottom and importing campers from the US through Ponderosa, Albert had touched many people's lives - bringing them smiles, laughter and good times.

""Ponderosa Al"" was a caring gentleman, who worked hard his entire life. Whether in cowboy boots or a tuxedo, he was always the last one to leave the dance floor.

Always one to make a deal, Ponderosa Al turned his natural sales ability into more businesses that lead to RV sales, farming and ranching. Many of his past customers still remember the indoor Christmas tree sales lot he created.

It was not uncommon to find Al involved with everything - from horse racing to boating and hunting as he acted on his passion to enjoy life, and bring a smile to those around him.

Special times were spent outside whenever possible, sometimes at his ranch, at the cabin with friends, in a garage or simply spending time with colleagues and friends.

Armored with thermal underwear, he would confront the elements to go ice fishing or hunting from a shack in the mountains with his friends; always returning home with stories of his successful endeavors.

His two sons, David and Alan, inherited many of his skills and traits from the quality time they spent together in a boat on the lake, fishing a river, riding horses, or climbing the Porcupine hills in search of trophy elk.

When early retirement arrived, he turned a hobby of farming and ranching into a full-time endeavor for many years. Al could always be found spending time on his farm, or riding a swather to keep busy. Into his 80's he continued his work on vehicles from the late 70’s in his backyard garage, proudly showing the polaroid pictures of each one. It brought him solace in the latter years.

As time passed, he became quiet and resolved with even more patience and understanding of life. The travels with friends were limited to local landmarks, yet his gentleness shone brightly, as he knew he had a very full, loving life. While resilient in ageing, sadly Albert is now resting peacefully. He will be missed by everyone who met him. Cherished by his family, for whom he provided a very, very beautiful upbringing.

Al is survived by his sons David (Laura) and their children Landon (Jenna) Casey and Hailey, and his youngest son Alan, his brother Norm (Brenda) Schneider and Shannon (Desmond) Mckee. He was predeceased by his father Frederick, mother Emmielia, and sisters Evelyn (Bob) Beggs and Marjorie (Ron) Northam.

Thanks Dad, Brother and friend.

A Memorial Reception will be held at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, April 21, 2015 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 St. South, Lethbridge, Alberta.