Alfred “Al” Louis Figel, 73, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center. Born on December 4, 1952, at Methodist Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Al lived a life defined by service, athleticism, humor, and deep devotion to family and friends.

Al is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Meribeth; his daughters, Molly (Tim) Ittenbach of Noblesville, Indiana, and Emily (Scott) Armstrong of Dublin, Ohio; and his cherished grandchildren, Grace and Charlotte Ittenbach, and Lucas and Jacob Armstrong. Al was fortunate to have a large and loving extended family, many of whom survive him, and many dear friends who became family over the years.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Donald, Mildred, and Fondah Figel; his brother, Donald Figel Jr.; Meribeth’s parents, W. Lloyd and Margaret Bridges; brothers-in-law Rick Parker; Steve Riethmiller; Bill Bridges; sisters-in-law Donna Riethmiller; Sandy Figel; and other loved ones gone too soon.

While serving in the Army Reserves for 6 years, Al began what would become a distinguished career in law enforcement. During nearly 50 years of service to his community, he served as a K-9 officer alongside Duke III, a homicide detective, and a sergeant in the juvenile division. Following 33 years with the Fort Wayne Police Department, Al continued his work for another 15 years as an investigator with the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office.

Al’s interests and hobbies were vast, and he never stopped discovering new passions throughout his life. Sports were a constant presence — from captaining the North Side High School football team to playing in adult softball leagues, organizing pickup basketball games, and participating in countless golf scrambles. He developed a love for tennis and passed that passion along to his daughters. Most recently, Al traded in his tennis racquets for pickleball paddles.

In addition to teaching and encouraging his own children, Al dedicated decades to coaching young athletes through the Police Athletic League (PAL), by volunteering his time in youth football, basketball, and tennis programs.

Adams Lake was Al’s second home from the time he was a young boy. He loved skiing, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and, above all else, spending time with family and friends at his favorite place on earth. Some of his family’s most treasured memories were made at the lake, where Al’s laughter, storytelling, and competitive spirit were always close by.

Al will be remembered for his loyalty, generosity, quick wit, and unwavering commitment to the people he loved and served. His impact on his family, friends, colleagues, and community will not be forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Friday, May 29, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 30, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at Covington Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life service honoring Al’s life will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Police Athletic League of Fort Wayne (2121 Olladale Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46808) in honor of Al’s lifelong dedication to mentoring and supporting youth in the community.