DEKKER: Albert ‘Al’ of Goderich

April 28, 1952 – November 8, 2026

With great sadness, the family of Albert “Al” Dekker announces his passing on November 8, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer and its after-effects.

Born in Zwolle, Netherlands, on April 28, 1952, Al emigrated to Canada with his family in 1953. He went on to build a life centred on hard work, family and service to his community.

Al is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Janet Dekker; his much-loved children, daughter Amanda and her husband Shawn Phillips, and son Ian Dekker; and his cherished grandchildren, Harper and Graydon, who were the greatest joys of his life. He is also survived by his sister Johanna Bolt; his brother, Clarence Dekker; his brother-in-law Dennis Allen; and his nieces and nephew Elizabeth, Mary Anne, Christie, Melissa and Ryan.

He was predeceased by his parents, Alberdina and Harm Dekker; his sister, Wolthera Allen; his brother-in-law, Harold Bolt; and his parents-in-law, Beth and Graydon Ritchie.

Al was a proud employee of the Town of Goderich and Goderich Hydro for more than 30 years and served his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Town of Goderich for more than 20 years. He took great pride in his work, his community and the many friendships he made along the way.

After being diagnosed with cancer in 2009, Al faced a long and difficult journey with remarkable strength and determination. He rarely complained about the health challenges he faced over the years. Some might have called him stubborn, but there was no question he was one tough man.

In his final years, Al treasured being at home and spending time with his family. Of all the roles he had in his life, his favourite was being Grandpa. He would do anything for Harper and Graydon and loved having them by his side, whether he was teaching them the value of hard work, getting their help with jobs around the house, or sharing his love of cooking and baking with them. He also never missed their Tuesday lunch dates hosted in his kitchen. He was incredibly proud of them, and the time they spent together meant everything to him.

After 48 years of marriage, Al leaves Janet with a lifetime of memories and a family they built together.

Known affectionately by many as “Big Al,” he was also one of the best slo-pitch players in the area, known for regularly hitting balls out of the park. He was a familiar face on the ball diamond for many years and made many lifelong friendships.

Al will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former co-workers, fellow firefighters and the community he called home. We will remember his strength and determination, his work ethic, his willingness to help others and, most of all, how much he loved his family.

He fought hard for a very long time. We will miss him more than words can say, but we are grateful for the time we had with him and for everything he taught us.

Our family extends our sincere thanks to Dr. Stan Spacek, Dr. M. Nicholson, Dr. K. Geukers and his visiting nurse, Shelley, for the care and compassion they provided to Al.

A private family service will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 11 Cambria Road North, Goderich on Saturday, December 5th at 11 AM. Family and friends are invited to a public celebration of life at the Goderich Legion, 56 Kingston Street, Goderich from 2 – 5 PM. Please join us at 3 PM as we share stories, memories and tributes, and say goodbye to Al.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Al’s memory may be made to the Goderich Legion or the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) Foundation.