Alfred T. Wedel August 9, 1919 – June 24 2007 Al was born in Enid, Oklahoma on August 9, 1919, to Cornelius and Effie Wedel, and he was the youngest child of nine children. Al's spirit departed this earth peacefully while sleeping on June 24, 2007, and was united with his Heavenly Father. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Jan Wedel; five grandchildren, Katie, Kelly, and Robbie Ramirez, and Kayla and Jeff Wedel; and one great grandson, Triston Gilliam. Al was raised in Grady, New Mexico, on the family farm from the age of 11 to 19, experiencing the "Dust Bowl" and migrating to California. While growing up in New Mexico, Al was an outstanding athlete excelling in many sports. He was a two-time state champion in track and field and earned several full-ride college scholarships. Unfortunately, he could not accept any of these offers as he contracted bone cancer toward the end of his senior year resulting from a football injury and underwent major surgery. Al did graduate from Bakersfield College and was fortunate to overcome the cancer and live a long and fruitful life. Al married Cleo Heiser on September 18, 1942, and they resided in Shafter their entire married life. After working 39 years as a Rural Letter Carrier for the Shafter Post Office, Al retired. He and Cleo then began many enjoyable years of AARP trips with friends. Later, they enjoyed further adventures traveling with their trailer with family and with many other couples who shared this interest. He also enjoyed his early morning coffee with friends in downtown Shafter. He was a loyal member of the Masonic Order for most of his adult life through which he developed strong friendships. Al is to be remembered for his love of people, enjoyment of laughter, willingness to argue a point, ability to be a good and loyal friend, strength of character, belief in excellence, trustworthiness and honor in keeping his word, honesty, and loyalty to family, his trust and faith in Jesus Christ, and for being a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will always be missed by all those who knew and loved him. The family wishes to thank all the dedicated and loving nurses and caregivers at Glenwood Gardens Skilled Nursing. They also wish to express their appreciation for years of very good care given to Al by Dr. William F. Baker, Jr., Dr. Sam Singh, Dr. Gregory Stainer, and for the services of Dr. Dale T. Herriott, while Al was a resident of Glenwood Gardens. Sincere warmth and gratitude is also extended to Al's church family at Valley Bible Church in Shafter and to his many loyal and consistent visitors. A graveside service under the direction of Peters Funeral Home was held at Shafter Memorial Park on Tuesday, July 3, 2007, followed by a memorial service at Valley Bible at 11am.. Please sign Al's guest book at www.goldenvalleymemorialcare.com.