It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Albert “Al” Saley. Al, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather passed away peacefully on February 18, 2021 at the age of 78, after a brief illness with cancer.

Al was born near Kirkland Lake, Ontario on August 20, 1942 to his mother Adele and father Alex, and grew up alongside his two brothers Alf and Sam. Surrounded by the outdoors of Northern Ontario, Al’s early years were filled with boundless adventure. Throughout his life, he would continue to fondly tell the stories of his youth, and he remained his happiest when he was up North with a chainsaw in hand and his axe nearby.

Al attended Ryerson for Architecture before pursuing a fulfilling, decades-long career as an entrepreneur, icon, and leader in the staffing industry. He first found success with DGS, and later with numerous companies, most recently The Dean Group.
Al’s life was also defined by his commitment to his family. He was a beloved husband to Karen; predeceased by brother Alf (Huguette); proud father (with mother Sandy) of his three children, Rob (Becky), Keri (Kevin), and Tia (Graham); stepfather to his two stepdaughters, Laura (Greg) and Rebecca (Sean); grandfather, or “Poppa Bear” to Austin, Maya, Natalia, Alexander, Makeena, and Guthrie. Al also leaves behind his younger brother Sam (Joyce), their three children and families, as well as countless friends and colleagues.

Al enriched the lives of the people around him with his easy generosity, kindness, and ingenuity. He was truly larger than life and possessed a never-ending energy, though he most enjoyed the simple things: the sand on his feet, long walks with his dogs, sunsets at the cottage, watching a Leaf’s game, tending to a beautiful fire, and enjoying dinner surrounded by his loved ones. While his loss is felt by many, the memories he has left us will continue to provide comfort.

A live stream of Al’s funeral service will be available through this page with details below. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Al may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Please enjoy the photo album and feel free to sign the guest book or share any photos you may have.