said, “this is where I want to be when I go”.
Al was born July 18, 1941, to Albert “Bud” and Mildred Poepper. Al was the oldest of 9 children
growing up on the farm balancing activities around the farmhouse, in the fields, and school at
Immaculate Conception in Arnold then Bishop DuBourg high school in south city.
Shortly after graduating Bishop DuBourg in 1960, Al joined US National Guard and served 6
years finishing rank E5 “buck” sergeant while working as a mechanic at Skelly then Brook &
Zeigler. Al always loved creating value through building and realized his career passion after
entering the Carpenters Union in 1965. One year later Al was running jobs as Superintendent
for Hoel-Steffen then Goodwin Brothers Construction Co. Al was proud of countless projects’
accomplishments cap stoned with a 55-year recognition from Carpenters Union.
One special day, Al saw a young lady at church and told his best friend “That is who I plan to
marry”. After a romantic courtship, Gloria Brouk and Al Swaller married on October 7, 1967. Al
and Gloria went on to have 3 “great” children- Dawn, Dean & Debbie.
Al was a wonderful husband, devoted provider, dedicated in faith, wise father & grandfather
“papa” to 5 grandchildren. Upon retirement in 1998, Al loved to maintain “Swaller valley”,
hunt, fish, golf, watch sporting events, bar-b-que and volunteer at St. John’s Church. He always
taught us to be gracious, Love each other and Do the Right Thing amongst many other words of
wisdom.
Al is survived by his wife of 55 years, Gloria Brouk, children Dawn (Art) Gross, Dean (Meghan),
Debbie (Chris) Mitchell, grandchildren Brianna, Derek, Luke, Alexa and Brock.
SERVICES: A visitation will be available Friday, December 23rd from 9:00am-11:00am at St. John’s Catholic Church, 4614 Blue Springs Dr, Imperial, MO 63052. Mass of Christian Burial to follow.
Mass or Memorial donations in Al Swaller honor may be made to St. Vincent DePaul Society
care of St. John’s Catholic Church Imperial, MO.
