I heard that former, long-time Homestead chef Albert Schnarwyler passed away this week. I was sorry to hear it.
I always liked Albert very much. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who did not like Chef Albert. Not so very long ago, a group of his former staff had a birthday bash for him at the Country Café. I don’t recall, but I think it might have been Chef Albert’s 90th birthday. I went, and could barely find a place to stand, much less to sit. It was a very festive affair. Laughter and remembrances of good times filled the air. When I got ready to take a photo, I couldn’t fit everyone who crowded around their beloved Chef Albert into the picture.
After he retired, and his beloved wife, Maxine, passed away, Albert moved to Botetourt to live with their daughter Amanda, her husband Zack, and their children. Albert would lovingly take care of the kids while their parents worked.
I recall one time, I was shopping at the big Kroger in Daleville. I was looking for fresh ahi tuna steaks. I sidled up to the counter, next to another customer. We started talking about how difficult it was to find fresh tuna, and he and I suddenly realized who each other was. We had a nice, quick reunion.
My sister worked for Chef Albert for years. When he published his compendium cookbook, “Dining at The Homestead,” I knew she’d like to have one. I somehow managed to miss his book-signing up here, and feared I’d missed out on the opportunity to acquire a great birthday gift. So, I found Albert’s number in Botetourt, and called him. We met at Mill Mountain Coffee and Tea – next to the Daleville Kroger – and Chef Albert graciously signed his book for Kathy.
Thinking back to Albert and Maxine, I do remember this: Boy, could that couple dance! They were the Fred and Ginger of Bath County. Always enjoyable to be around, and especially fun to watch on the dance floor.
What a fascinating, and long life Swiss-born Albert Schnarwyler lived. He was loved by probably thousands – both on his staff, and by hotel guests, many of whom claimed they returned to the grand old hotel just so they could eat Chef’s Albert’s culinary creations.
At this point, I don’t know if, or where, or what kind of, memorial service there will be for Albert Schnarwyler. But I am certain of this: They’d better find a large venue, because that place will be packed.
And what better testament to a life well lived, than to have a huge crowd of people gathering to give you a big send-off? To live a life like Albert Schnarwyler’s … you’ve really gotta love it!
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