In Loving Memory of

Allan King

of Edmonton
Jul 26, 2018

No longer ‘on hold’… Al in his own words, ‘shot on through’ with courage and ease in the early morning of July 26th, 2018. He wanted his obituary to read: I always knew this was going to happen.

His service in the Navy throughout WWII, and a lifetime in the Oilfield helped him perfect the art of swearing and telling ribald jokes. He could be a thousand miles from home and he’d still know someone who’d call out – "Hey…isn’t that Al King?"

An avid sports fan, he called his basement The Forum. While shouting at the TV in the heat of a close game, and without realizing, he butted a cigarette out on his forehead repeatedly for emphasis after a particularly bad call from the ref. He used to say, "and now I’ll tell you how I really feel." There was never much doubt.

Born in Calgary March 5, 1925, Al lived a full life marked by strong friendships he maintained until his death. A loyal father, he is survived by his son Jeff and daughter Tricia (Paul) who love him greatly. He was pre-deceased by his longtime companion, Anita Schertzer from Palm Desert, whose extended family took him into their hearts and lives. Her grandchildren became his, and they aptly nicknamed him ‘Grandpa Goddamn’.

Days before his death, he was asked if he needed a little cash while in hospice. "No" he said. "I’ll just borrow some from Si…and if I play my cards right, I won’t have to pay him back." If you knew Al, you had a good story about him.

An enormous thank you to Dr. Neeja K. Bakshi along with her Interns at RAH, and her team at Park Integrative Health, who provided care far above and beyond the call of duty. Thank you to his loyal friends who cared deeply, brought him food, coffee, contact, and so much more. Thank you to the kind people at the Norwood, to Homecare, and to ‘Rochelle-Rochelle’ who would clean his glasses every time he checked in for his appointments - every one wanted to go the distance for Al. Each of you made a real difference in his life and because of this, he was able to fulfill his wish to stay at home right up until his final transition.

A Memorial at the Highlands Golf Club will be held on Tuesday, September 11th, 2018 from 2-4 pm.

Contributions in his memory may be sent to the Salvation Army or The Edmonton Bissell Centre.