Albert Louis "Al" Schindler

Albert Schindler peacefully passed away on August 20, 2025, he was 97 years old. Our broken hearts are lifted knowing he has joined his beloved wife, Joy, in heaven. Known affectionately as Al, he truly embodied honor, devotion, generosity, and love, leaving an everlasting impact as an amazing husband, father, father-in- law, grandfather, uncle, friend and role model.

On April 8, 1928, Al was born to John and Catherine Schindler in Mt Angel, Oregon. Later moving to Chehalis, Washington, Al enjoyed growing up tending to his family's farm and garden with his four sisters and brother. Al excelled in school, Future Farmers of America and lettered in baseball, football, basketball and boxing.

Al proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1948 to 1952, serving abroad during the Korean War. Al quickly gained the respect and loyalty of his fellow Marines, rising to the rank of Sergeant. He was always honored to be acknowledged for his service, although he rarely talked about his wartime experiences. Al made a promise that if he survived the Korean War, he would be a devoted servant of God. Al truly loved his Country and God.

Upon his honorable discharge, Al attended the University of Portland in Oregon graduating with a degree in Business Administration. He was very proud his granddaughter, Rebecca, chose to attend his alma mater this fall! Following graduation, Al embarked on a successful 35-year career with Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO). After many promotions and transfers, he retired as a Regional Sales Manager. In retirement, Al volunteered at St. Mel's Catholic Church in many ways, his most rewarding was as President of St. Vincent de Paul and the honor of being given the "Top Hat" Award from the Sacramento Council. Al was grateful for his many blessings and made good on his wartime promise as countless people were touched by his generosity and big heart.

In 1958, Al's world was forever changed once he met the love of his life, Joy Darlene Leonard. A natural beauty, Joy caught Al's eye more than once: working in a bank, attending the Pendleton Round-Up, and driving her sporty car around town. Al and Joy married in 1963 and had an adoring sixty-year marriage. Together they raised four independent daughters in a home full of faith and unconditional love. Al was sweet and protective as a father, expressing his thoughtfulness through flowers and notes. He was a consummate gentleman, a practical joker and a great communicator. Al proudly welcomed each of his son in laws to the family and was delighted by how they balanced the family dynamic. Family was an immense source of pride and joy for Al, especially when it came to his eight grandchildren. He took great pleasure nurturing them and

watching them flourish. Al enjoyed camping, boating, gardening, the beach, college football, the Sacramento Kings and politics, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.

Al was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Joy, his parents, John and Catherine Schindler, his siblings Dorothy, Lorraine, Martin and Lena, and his dear son in law, Rick Daley. Surviving him are his devoted daughters: Christine (Keith) Atteberry of Danville, Julia (Anthony) D'Amante of Lafayette, Mary (James) Waterman of Shingle Springs and Stephanie Daley of Cameron Park, as well as his eight adoring grandchildren: Devan and Matthew Atteberry, Zachary (fiancée Kyle McQuain) and Michael D'Amante, Reilley and Joy Waterman and Rebecca and Samantha Daley. Also survived by his sister Geri Dykeman of Winlock, WA, and many dear nephews and nieces.

Our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude go out to Maggie Baleisuva and Agatha Rasuaki for their loving care of Albert.

Semper Fidelis Dad, we will always keep your love and strength in our hearts!

A funeral mass will be held at Calvary Cemetery and Funeral Center, 7101 Verner Ave, Citrus Heights, CA, on October 13 th , 11:30 rosary, 12:00 mass with burial and reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to St. Mel Church St. Vincent de Paul Society https://www.stmelchurch.org/st–vincent-de-paul-society