Peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family on Sunday, February 7, 2021, of Arva at the age of 76. Cherished husband and best friend of Eleanor (Schram) Edmondson for over 54 years. Proud father of David, and William. Dear brother-in-law of John and Aleana Schram, and Marcia Schram. Loving uncle of Elizabeth and Grady, Katherine and Andrew, Peter and Jen, Michelle, and Andrew. Predeceased by his parents, William and Kathleen (Leighton) Edmondson, aunts Jessie, Ada, and Mary, and uncle Jack and his wife Helen, cousin Sandra and Murry Nelson.
Al led a full life built around his pillars of community, integrity and honesty. Within that he was an explorer, a creative and a visionary in all aspects of his life. Al had an extremely rewarding teaching career spanning more than 35 years. He pushed the envelopes of how teachers taught and inspired staff and students alike to seek their full potential. No dream was bigger or more important than any other and Al did whatever he could to support those around him to grow to be better people. If there was a path to find a better solution Al would go down it and rally those around to join him as his equal. He had a calmness and warmth that was uniquely his own and always acted with others’ best interest in mind. He was kind and gentle but certainly was not afraid to stand up for what he believed in and trusted his moral compass, and for good reason.
Al continued to follow his passion for community by serving as a proud member of the Ilderton Lion’s Club for over 40 years and in municipal politics, as a two-term councillor, Deputy Mayor and finally Mayor of Middle Centre Township for almost two decades including 2 years as Warden of Middle County. His success came from his simple quest to be authentic and do what is best for the community. Of course among all of his accomplishments throughout his life, his family remained his proudest achievement and greatest priority. He was a great husband and father and truly loved being both. Whether you knew Al as Mr. E, Big Al, Mayor Al or as the Mega Mayor, he always made people laugh, and feel welcome.
Al was fortunate to have some wonderful care during his time with his Amyloidosis diagnosis and wanted to send a sincere thank you to Dr. P. Teefy, and Kim for the unwavering support, nurses Subin, and Raji, Dr F .Rehman and Dr Van Dam, who all worked to ensure his comfort and facilitate his staying at home.
A private family memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 13th at 11:30 AM with Reverend Shelia Macgregor officiating. Cremation with interment St. John’s Cemetery, Arva. Though the service is private, the family invites you to join from the comfort of your home. Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh.
Donations to the London & Area Food Bank, Ailsa Craig & Area Food Bank, the Children’s Aid Society London & Middle, or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
Offer Condolence for the family of EDMONDSON: William Alexander “Al” of Arva
2021
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de EDMONDSON William Alexander “Al of Arva 2021..
Décès pour la Ville:Exeter, Province: Ontario