Alfred (Al) C. Dechant

Al was 86 years old when he passed away. Born in Ellis Kansas, to parents Peter Dechant and Mary (Kesler) Dechant. He was one of ten boys and 3 girls. They farmed and spoke German working on the farm. When Al started school he couldn't speak English.

When old enough he and his brothers also worked on a neighbor’s farm. After moving to the outskirts of Brighton, CO they continues to farm When they were old enough to enlist Al and a couple of his brothers served in the Navy during World War 2. That is where Al started his music career learning how to play the guitar. Later playing the piano, Dulcimier, and trombone. He then formed a band with Mel Mollendor the Jolly Polka Band 1960-1972. They were the house band every Saturday night for 3 years at Lombardi. He played with Al Holman 11 years. In between all of the years playing he helped other bands: Adolf Lessor, Carl Zeller, Marlyn Imhoff, Ronnie Echardt, Jake Bauer, Paul Weingardt and many others. He taught others to play as well. Al finished his career of music with John Fritzler playing 14 years with them ending his career of 55 years in the music industry.

In between all the playing All owned Trailer Service until 1980. He went on to work with Western Equipment for many years before retiring. But at the age of 70 he went to work helping DPX get started and worked with them for 14 years retiring at the age of 84.

Al was a people person and never met a stranger. He never forgot a name. He was well liked and loved by many.

What Al loved was the truck business, his music and most of all his family meant the world to him.

He is survived by his wife Pam, 4 children, 8 grandchildren, numerous brothers and one sister.

All will be sadly missed and loved by his family.

Funeral services will be held at Olinger Moore Howard Chapel, 4345 West 46th Avenue, Denver, CO 80215. Vistiation is Thursday evening, November 15, 2012 from 6pm to 8pm. Funneral Service is at 10am on Friday Morning, November 16, 2012.

All flower deliveries should be made to Olinger Moore Howard.