ALAN MECHLER

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

• Al was my first manager when I joined Great-West Life's Corporate Technology department many years ago, and without a doubt, he was one of the best leaders and mentors I've ever had the privilege of working with. His support, his deep wisdom, his belief in his faith, and his friendship truly left a lasting impact on those around him, both in his work life and personal. Junko and I are truly saddened to hear about Al's untimely passing. Please accept our deepest condolences to Al's family, his close friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know and love him. Rests in peace my friend. - Posted by: Darin (and Junko) Paterson (Former Co-worker (Great-West Life)) on: Jan 15, 2025

• My condolences to Debbie, Devon and Greg. I worked for Al for many years at GWL and he was an absolutely incredible boss. He saw potential in me that I couldn't see and always had my back whenever I needed it. He was always so quick with a joke and loved to laugh...in addition to his big heart, that was one of my favourite things about him. Every year at Christmas he would give us beautiful cards featuring one of the nature photographs he'd taken, always selected with care. About 10 years ago I asked him if he would do family pictures for my girls and I. Even though it put him out of his comfort zone (he was way more in his element shooting nature than people is how he put it), he took the most beautiful pictures of my girls and I. To this day, those are my favourite pictures of them. Al was one in a million and he will be terribly missed. - Posted by: Andrea Klassen (Co-worker/friend) on: Jan 14, 2025

• I am deeply saddened by Al's passing. He was a mentor, colleague, and cherished friend who had an immeasurable impact on my life. Al’s wisdom, patience, and guidance shaped not only my career but also the person I am today. My heart goes to Debbie, Devon, Greg, and his grandchildren. May you find comfort in the countless beautiful memories you shared with him. Al’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, and he will be profoundly missed. Rest in peace, Al. Thank you for everything. - Posted by: Louie Orbeta (Co-worker/Friend) on: Jan 07, 2025

• So sad to hear about Al. He was a great man. His love of God and his family were what defined him. Working with him was easy because of his humor, kindness and intelligence. He won at life. - Posted by: Liz McAnanama (Friend - co worker) on: Jan 06, 2025

• So very sad to hear of Al's passing. He was a great guy with a fun sense of humor and liked by so many at work. He will be missed. My condolences to all his family and friends. - Posted by: Brenda Cabral (Co-worker) on: Jan 04, 2025

• I worked with Al for many years at GWL. They were mostly alot of fun and even after I left Al was good about keeping in touch - Posted by: Patti Gilhuly (Co-worker/Friend) on: Jan 04, 2025

• I am so sorry for your loss! What a character he was! When I think of him, I’m always smiling. He was on the team for the first project I did at GWL. We had an inside joke of a “Project Salute” which was banging your hand against your forehead. Whenever we met each other in a hallway, we wouldn’t say anything; we would just do the Project Salute! Such a fond memory! - Posted by: Debbie Rhymer (GWL Colleague ) on: Jan 04, 2025

• My condolences to, and prayers for, Alan's wife Debbie, and children and grandchildren. Alan and I grew up as neighbours on Galinee Bay in Winnipeg. I remember the pride he took in his 70s bronze-coloured El Camino. I also remember connecting with Alan in the mid-80s, and I believe he shared with me at that time that he had come to faith in Jesus Christ, as had I. As a father and grandfather myself, I can imagine the joy Alan experienced with his children and grandchildren, and I am thankful he was so blessed. May the God of all comfort and hope carry you in these days. Sincerely, Garth Klassen - Posted by: Garth Klassen (Friend, former neighbour) on: Jan 04, 2025