It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of a remarkable man, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle. He was affectionately known as Papa Boss to almost everyone including friends of the family. He passed after a courageous and determined battle with cancer on October 7th, 2025, at the age of 86.
He will be greatly missed by his children, Shelley Smith of Edmonton, AB, Sandra Robinson (Garry Von Lipinsky) of Edmonton, AB, Calvin (Corinne) Smith of Castle Island, AB, Shanna (Brian) Cropp of Surrey, BC; 6 Grandchildren, Georgette, Calsy, Jelcia, Brandon, Ezi and Mason; 6 Great Grandchildren, Rosta, Shayden, Allen and the triplets – Finley, Arielle and Jaxon; Brothers, Alfred (Marie) Smith, Angus Smith, Joe (Lil) Levy and numerous nieces & nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Anna (Shaffer) Smith; Sisters, Joanne Burak, Rita Horkey and Diane McLean; Brothers, Paul Levy and Sam Levy; Brother-in-Law Pete Burak and Granddaughter Jessie Cardinal.
During his working years Al was a heavy-duty equipment operator. He was proud of his membership with the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 955 for over 60 years and had recently received his long service award prior to his passing.
He cherished his family, his friends, country music, and a good sunny day, perfect for taking the side by side out looking for a bit of trouble with his partner in crime Darby. He was always up for a spontaneous road trip especially if it was to BC to see his daughter and grandkids or even Disneyland. He loved kicking back at Castle Island listening to all the stories being told and spending time with family and friends.
Al lived his life to the fullest, meeting every challenge with grace and dignity. Let us take a page from his book and be grateful for what we have, remembering to slow down a little and enjoy the small things in life. Back in the day Al would be the first person on the dance floor kicking his heels up and even though life threw him a curve ball with his stroke that never stopped him, even in his last years he was still on that dance floor, in his wheelchair, dancing with the triplets. His smile had a way of lighting up a room, his eyes were a window into his soul. There were so many special moments and memories that we will cherish forever.
The family would like you to come celebrate Allan’s Life with them on Saturday, June 13th, 2026, at the Glendon and District Seniors Center at 5202 51st Street, Glendon, AB starting at 11:00 am. A light lunch will be provided.
In lieu of flowers, any donations can be made to Haying in the 30’s (Cancer Support Society) c/o 5626 – 51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1.
A limb has fallen from the family tree. I keep hearing a voice that says, “Grieve not for me”.
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song-The good life I lived while I was strong.
Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.
My mind is at ease; my soul is at rest. Remembering all, how I truly was blessed.
Our family has known Al for 30 years. We were lucky enough to share time with him in your St. Albert home. He always took interest in our family. Later once you made your home at Castle Island we were blessed to see him on all our visits. Calvin, you, Sandy and Gary were so dedicated, keeping his weekly routine, taking him out to the lake and keeping him out of harms way during COVID. Rest easy Al, you are loved and will be missed.
Condolence to the family of such a remarkable man
My condolences to Shelly, Sandra ,Kelvin, Shanna and their families 🙏🏻.
May Al R . I . P .
He was a man of courage and I saw this every time he took his walker and slowly walked to the gate and back (about a mile). He reminds me of the old adage ‘If you think you can- you are right’.
Our sympathies to the family. We had many great memories. Horse back riding, baseball, rodeo even riding in the back of a truck picking bottles. We love you give hugs to my parents
my uncle is gone he will be missed Rip