Obituary of Albert Reynaert

With love in his heart until the very end, Albert Reynaert passed away peacefully on July 21^st, at the age of 76 surrounded by his loving family. Albert was born in St. Thomas, Ontario on July 7^th, 1948 and he grew up in Aylmer. He was a devoted husband for 54 years to his “pretty woman” Margaret (Voros). Albert loved his children dearly; Heather Vanacker (Shawn), Karen Deering (Stephen), and Jason Reynaert. He was his grandchildren’s biggest fan, always finding ways to let Jessica, Samantha, Jordan, Danielle, Poppy and Charlotte know how proud he was of them. Albert is survived by his loving “sister Barb” Pede (Dan), sister-in-law Barb Kersten as well as other cherished in-laws.  He was also loved by many cousins, nieces and nephews. Albert was predeceased by his parents, Frank Reynaert (2002) and Vera Niville (2023), and a younger brother James (1995). 

If there ever was a person that would walk 500 miles for you, there is no doubt that it would be Albert Reynaert. His vibrant personality and sensitive soul were two of his greatest qualities. Albert was a man of service, giving back to others and his community in many ways. He was a dedicated hockey coach, referee and volunteer Malahide firefighter. Albert took pride in all that he did. He valued family, farm life, friends and fun. For 26 years, Albert grew tobacco alongside his wife Margaret. During this time, he also worked at Imperial Tobacco and for the Marketing Board. Albert finished his working life at Alliance One Tobacco Canada where connecting with area farmers was his favourite part of the job. Albert’s magnetic personality meant that he would talk to almost everyone he crossed paths with. He had a way of bringing any dance floor to life with his signature moves. If you have danced with Albert then you are fortunate to have a special memory of your own. Nothing gave Albert more joy than dancing his heart out to The Proclaimers “I’m Gonna Be(500 Miles)” and Roy Orbison “Oh, Pretty Woman.”

Our heartfelt thanks goes out to the staff in the Lakewood unit at Woodingford Lodge in Woodstock for the compassionate care they provided to Albert over the past four years. He was treated like family there and for that we will always be grateful. 

In keeping with Albert’s wishes, and to honour his love for socializing, visitation will be held at H.A. Kebbel Funeral Home, Aylmer on Thursday, August 8, 2024 from 6-9:00 p.m. and on Friday, August 9^th from 1-2:00 p.m. where a Celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 p.m.  

Following the service, everyone is invited to gather at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Aylmer for refreshments and to share fond memories of Albert. For those who would like to make a donation in Albert’s memory, please consider sending your donations to Woodingford Lodge, Woodstock (Lakewood Unit) or the Alzheimer Society Southwest.

The world may have said good-bye to a wonderful man, but we find comfort in knowing that his memory will live on in all the lives he has touched. You are loved Albert.

Share memories or condolences at kebbelfuneralhome.com