Born in South Bend, Indiana, attended Washington High School, then Purdue University. While in college he enlisted in the US AIR FORCE serving from 1960-64. He moved to Arizona around 1970.
Al found his passion in the construction specification industry with MAPEI Corp for tile and flooring installations. Al could present what might sound like a boring product by its title in such clever and entertaining ways that you would never forget: Like Al wearing a giant Chef’s hat talking about the chemistry of grout!
After 20+ years with Mapei he took the specifying reins and marched all over the USA with the NOBLE COMPANY. He spent 9 years there until his retirement @2009 to his longtime Scottsdale residence.
CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) was big part of his life and Al was the life of the party at annual conferences and conventions. He always stayed to the last at the events and was a great host. He welcomed many new members, served as President of the Phoenix Chapter from 1996 to 1997 and was always there to lend a hand, or at least an opinion.
Al was feisty to the end but passed away peacefully on October 15,2018 with many friends having visited in the last days.
Survived by his sister, Judith (Tarr) Mattei and her husband Frank, nephew Russ Mattei, (daughter Ashleigh), niece Deb Kolber (KEVIN, deceased, sons Nicholas Kolber and Kory Kolber) & had many cousins and lifelong friends. Al’s wishes were to spend eternity in his favorite beautiful place in Sedona, so his ashes will be spread at West Fork at a later date.
Al’s wishes were to spend eternity in his favorite beautiful place in Sedona, so his ashes will be spread at West Fork at a later date.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to funeral home Angels Cremation & Burial 422 W McClellan, Mesa, AZ 85201 to help offset funeral expenses.