Albert Rodrigues, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 25th, 2019, surrounded by his family. Albert will be deeply missed by his wife Louise, his children, Chris (Vicky), Sharon (Dave), Lisa (Dale), Craig (Kerry), Rob (Christie) and Barb; his grandchildren, Ryan, Grayson, Jillian, Denae, Brett, Jordain, Josh, Aiden and Kristian; his great-grandchildren, Caleb, Ariana, Liam, Owen, Lucas, Sawyer, Dane, Riley, and Jonah, his sister Gloria, many loving nieces, nephews and friends.
Albert was born in Georgetown, British Guyana on March 5, 1934. He moved to Calgary on August 16, 1963, with his then-wife Paquita, and their two children, Chris and Sharon. His three youngest children, Lisa, Craig, and Rob were born in Calgary. In 1989, Albert was very fortunate to meet Louise, his soulmate. They were married in 1991 and had 28 wonderful years together. Albert and Louise enjoyed their travels to Mexico, the United States, across Canada and most recently, a family trip to Maui. They loved spending time with family and friends, and with their beloved pets. Albert was a hard worker. During their first years in Canada, he worked three jobs to support his family. Albert worked at Pay n’ Save for many years before moving on to Dominion Bridge and Western Steel. In his later years, Albert and Louise became the caretakers at Holy Name Church.
Albert was passionate about music, especially Calypso music, and he was a self-taught musician. He played the congas, the upright bass, and the guitar. Albert never read a note of music but if you could sing it, he could play it. Back home in Guyana, he belonged to the band, “The Ramblers”, and when he moved to Calgary he joined the band “The Tropics”. Albert’s bandmates became life-long friends and Albert was thrilled, when recently he had the opportunity to reunite with some of his Rambler buddies. Albert loved his cars. He spent many hours cleaning his car inside and out, and waxing it until it shone. He loved to take his sons out to sit in his car to listen to Calypso music on the stereo. Albert was a wonderful cook and he enjoyed teaching his kids how to make curry and roti. Christmas morning brunch was not complete without Albert’s pepper pot, and family dinners always included a jar of his famous hot pepper sauce.
Albert’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was very devoted to his wife Louise, and his children and grandchildren. He also had a strong family connection with his sisters, nieces, and nephews. He demonstrated unconditional love, and he taught his children to love unconditionally as well. Albert cared deeply about those whom he loved, and he was always there to offer help and support. He was a good man. We will miss his nightly phone calls, just to check in and say “I love you”.
Albert (Dad), it is so hard to say goodbye, but our faith assures us that we will meet again. Until then, may God hold you in the palm of his hand, and may there be lots of great music in Heaven.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Name Catholic Church (2223 34 Street SW) on Thursday, August 1, 2019, at 1:00 pm with The Very Rev. Bob Dielissen presiding. Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared with Albert’s family through www.evanjstrong.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA (403-205-4455, https://www.calgaryhumane.ca/donate) or to the charity of your choice. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff on the Rapid Access Unit at the South Health Campus for their compassionate care during Albert’s last days.
