Al Vas

Al is survived by his wife of 39 years, Evelyn; their children, Erika Vas, and Errol Vas (Tan Huijing) of Hangzhou, China; and his beloved grandson, Tan MingXi “Kieran” (Vas), whose videos Al looked forward to watching each morning. He is also survived by his mother, Felicia Vas; his siblings, Clem Kirkelie, Bernadette (Carl) Finley, and Daniel (Janet) Vas; his sisters-in-law, Nancy Nellis (Steudler), and Barbara Peterson; his brother-in-law, Michael Eisenhuth; as well as his nieces and nephews: Chad, Jamie, Erin, Hailey, Matthew, Gabrielle, Carl, Lynn, Laura, Paul, David, and Rhonda. He was predeceased by his father, Eugene Vas; his brother-in-law, Chris Steudler; and his nephew, Steven Eisenhuth.

Al was born in Nairobi, Kenya, to Eugene and Felicia Vas. His life journey took him from the vibrant landscapes of Kenya to London, England. At age 17, he and his family later immigrated to Lethbridge, Alberta, following in the footsteps of his Aunt Prisca and Uncle Bosco, and with the compassionate support of the K.N. Stewart family. It was here that he built his life and family, graduating from Catholic Central High School, beginning his post-secondary studies at the University of Lethbridge, and earning a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Psychology (1979). He furthered his education at the University of Calgary, obtaining a Bachelor of Social Work (1985), and a Master of Social Work (1988).

Al quickly became a cornerstone of community support, following his calling, and dedicating his life’s work to helping others. For over a decade, he worked with Alberta Social Services, followed by several impactful years at Lethbridge Family Services. By 1988, already an accomplished psychotherapist with Alberta Health Services, he established his own private counselling and consulting practice, Al Vas & Associates. For nearly twenty years, Al focused his expertise on individual, marital, and family counselling. He used his gifts to help people from all walks of life navigate life’s challenges with the same sincerity and integrity that defined his personal life. After feeling “tired of being retired,” he returned to Alberta Health Services, joining the Taber Mental Health Clinic until his final retirement in 2018.

Beyond his clinical practice, Al was a man of many talents. In his early years, he challenged himself through martial arts, boxing, weightlifting, and running competitions. A lifelong learner and academician with a mind like an encyclopedia, Al was equally at home in his garage, at a friend’s shop, or on his tractor cutting grass. He loved to problem-solve, crossword puzzles, and could restore anything from a holey sock to a vacuum. An artist at heart, his talents ranged from writing poetry, woodworking, sewing, braiding, and drawing, to collecting mid-century Chalet glassworks. He loved dogs, had experience as a dog trainer, and fostered a special bond with Erika’s dog, earning the title of “Ueli’s Support Human.”

Al found peace in rural living, spending time admiring the prairie landscape and the mountains. He delighted in keeping his people close, hosting get-togethers, and entertaining a full house. He especially enjoyed making signature soups, and cooking for family and friends. Those closest to him knew him as a comedian with a light-hearted humour that kept everyone smiling. Above all, he cherished his role as a grandpa, spending precious time building forts, sharing stories, and chatting via FaceTime with his grandson, Kieran.

Dad was well respected for being exceptionally hardworking, sincere, and trustworthy. He was a man of quiet generosity, looking out for others wherever he went, especially newly arrived immigrant families, providing them with furniture for their homes, personal support, and a welcoming hand. Raised Roman Catholic, Al found strength in his relationship with God. He lived his life with integrity and quiet, steadfast faith.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Al’s memory.

With all our love and gratitude.

A Celebration of Al’s life will be held at the SANDMAN SIGNATURE LETHBRIDGE LODGE, 320 Scenic Drive South, Lethbridge, AB, on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. The service will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Al’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Al, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.