Born July 5, 1921 in Leoben, Upper Styria, Austria. Died January 15, 2011 on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Alfred grew up in Austria and developed his appreciation of the outdoors in his youth, hiking and cycling in the mountains. He graduated from high school in 1938 and immediately enlisted in the mountaineering troops of the German army, quickly becoming an officer. From 1940 to 1948, Alfred was a prisoner of war in Russia. After his release, he became a journeyman painter in Austria. In 1952, he and Ingrid immigrated to Montreal, Canada, where he lived and worked until 1957. Moving West, Alfred lived in Vancouver until 1964, when he and his young family came to Saltspring Island. He had a long artistic career combining his painting trade with mural work and interior design. His passions included languages, art, history, geography, classical music and hiking. Memories of Alfred’s kind demeanour, love of storytelling, artistic ways and strong moral principles live on in the hearts and minds of his six children, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, friends, and community members. As Alfred tips his loden green hat goodbye, his family thanks the many people who enriched Alfred’s life. His family extends special appreciation to the staff of Lady Minto Hospital and the many visitors who treated Alfred with respect, compassion and sensitivity in the last weeks of his life.
A tea to celebrate Alfred’s life will be held at Beaver Point Hall on Sunday, January 30 from 1-4 pm. The Temmel family invites you to come and bring stories, memories and Alfred’s art to share.