Albert Herrera Galindo, of Edmonds, Washington, passed away surrounded by family on January 25, 2023, after respiratory failure from metastatic salivary gland carcinoma caused by Agent Orange. Despite this battle he never lost his sense of humor, cracking jokes and making faces. He always had this charisma to make others smile and laugh, while silently being a warrior.
Al was born on August 30, 1948, to Joe and Cruz Galindo in Bryan, Texas. Growing up he and his close friends formed their first band called the “Dark Knights”. This ended at the tender age of 19 due to each member being drafted to Vietnam in 1968. Al was a Door Gunner in the 119th Helicopter Assault Co. from 1968-1970 the year of the most US casualties. He was a Purple Heart recipient this is a dedication of less than 6/10 of 1% of all active members of the military receive this heart. Upon returning he attended Trend Business College in Washington. Moved to California, met and married Irene in 1972, and had 3 daughters, Andrea, Jenesa, and Roseann. In 1988 he met his son Tom and continued to build that relationship. He worked for and retired from the City of Fresno in 1995. In 1997 he met his current girlfriend LeAnn and her son Richard. He returned to school to finish his education and earned his associate's Degree in General Studies from Yakima Valley Community College. He worked as an Assistant Property Manager for the Seattle Housing Authorities in Washington. He continued working full time his entire life, including his illness with Cancer until January 6, 2023, at 74 years old. Al has been sober for over 25 years.
Al spent his life riding his Harleys, playing his guitar collection, traveling, and going to Seattle Mariner’s games, attending many concerts such as Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Chicago, Bruno Mars, Miami Sound Machine, and Jonas Brothers. When family would visit he always gave the grand tour of the city visiting Pike Place Market, the space needle, Woodland Park Zoo, Museum of Pop, Pacific Science Center, Seattle Aquarium, The Seattle Great Wheel, Ride the Ducks, and many other attractions.
Al will join his parents Joe and Cruz in heaven. He will also be reunited with his brother Johnny, cousin Lito, his cat Smoky and many other family and friends.
He is survived by his 4 children Andrea, Jenesa, Roseann, and Tom, sons-in-law Daniel and Aaron, and daughter-in-law Celinda. His partner LeAnn and her son Richard. 15 grandchildren Elisa, Crystal, Esteban, Daniel, Krisandra, Joseph, Ariana, Robert, Anissa, Aaron, Ava, Angel, Aliana, Maxximus, and Benjamin, and 1 great-grandchild Azaria. Brothers Steve, Gus, Lindo, Robert and David and sisters Connie, Mary and many nephews and nieces. All who had the honor of meeting and enjoying time with this spectacular person.
He will be painfully missed but his memories will live on with his legacy.
Visitation will be held at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral home on Thursday, February 16, 2023, from 4 pm-6 pm. Rosary to follow.
Mass of Christian Burial at St. Agnes Mission Church, Pinedale, CA at 10 am on Friday, February 17, 2023.
Interment at St. Peters Cemetery
