Alfred Block died May 5, 2010. He was born May 30, 1940 near Waldheim, Sask. to John and Mary (Epp) Block. As a child, he helped on the farm and built vehicles and machines. He suffered infantile paralysis at 5 and rheumatic fever at 9 – illnesses that sent him away from his family and taught him fortitude. He graduated high school in 1959 and worked for Canadian National Railway as a draftsman. Al married high school sweetheart, Dian Strobel in 1960. They lived in Saskatoon, Dauphin, Man., and Winnipeg. In 1975, Al fulfilled his lifelong dream by opening his own manufacturing business, Block’s Ornamental Iron in Waldheim. He worked hard, and many of his artistic railings are visible around the valley. In 2002, a cancer diagnosis forced Al to retire. His recovery from a femur replacement exceeded expectations, and despite his lung cancer surgery in 2006, he and Dian were able to tour North America by bus. Al enjoyed setting puzzles, playing pool, and researching family history. He suffered complications following kidney cancer surgery Apr. 15. Predeceased by 1 brother, Al is mourned by Dian; children Stuart (Karen), Greg (Laura), Lori (Trenton) Janz; 6 grandchildren; stepmother Ruth Block; 7 siblings; in-laws.
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