Josette and Georges Magri writes:

The first time we met Albert was when we had gone to his office to plan for the drinks for our engagement party. The first thing that struck us was his calm, unruffled demeanour, his courtesy and his savoir faire. Since then, over 40 years ago, it developed into a friendship that bonded both our families. That is why, to us, his passing away is as painful as the demise of a dear one in our family.

How can we begin to describe him? A real gentleman of the old school, a very rare species nowadays, practically close to extinction, unfortunately. A good, kind and considerate person, discreet to a fault. Very generous both with his time and his means, as many will attest.

After his time as mayor, deputy mayor and councillor of Sliema, he kept going there to help out in any way with his past experience. He was greatly loved and respected by his employees, his neighbours, his friends and most of the Sliema residents who, in him, had a shoulder to lean on. This was confirmed during the funeral Mass when the celebrant priest, the son of one of Albert’s former employees, said in his homily that Albert was a wonderfully kind and thoughtful employer who never threw his weight around, was just and appreciative and, most of all, helpful and supportive.

The impressive turnout at his funeral says it all. Most of those present were emotional, many in tears, as the coffin was carried shoulder-high amid loud applause. He had won the hearts of many.

It is rare to see teenagers and adolescents cry at a grandparent’s funeral but we could see that his grandchildren were visibly moved and in tears, close to their parents. He had united them all as one whole, thanks to his personal interest in every individual, showing no preferential treatment.

Albert was a beacon of light that glowed gently, giving you comfort, reassurance and solace.

Sliema will miss him. Malta in general will miss him as a local figure but, most of all, his beloved family and close friends.

To his dear wife, Tessie, whom he tended with such loving care, his children Alex, Caroline and Veronica, and all his grandchildren goes our heartfelt sympathy on such a sad loss.