Albert Lee Apel

Major (Retired) Albert Lee Apel of Enterprise, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, following complications developing after a kidney operation. He was 90.

A memorial service and burial will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 11AM at Sunset Memorial Park in Dothan Alabama. Visitation will begin at 10AM.

Al was born July 2, 1935 in Ethel, Missouri to the late Clarence and Pearl Apel. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Mary Joyce Creekmore Apel, who passed away in 2019, as well as his brother, Charles Apel, and sister, Esther Apel. He is survived by his daughter, Sandy Apel Tanner and son-in-law Frank Tanner of Houston, Texas; and grandchildren Nicholas (and wife Riley) Tanner of New Hope, Pennsylvania and Caroline Tanner of New York, New York.

Soon after graduating from Brookfield High School in Brookfield, Missouri, Al enlisted in the U.S. Army, embarking on a distinguished 22-year military career. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and two tours in Germany. In 1967, Al graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS). During his military service, he earned numerous decorations for his bravery and service, including the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism during aerial flight, the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, and many other air and commendation medals.

Helicopters and aviation were his lifelong passions. Following his military retirement in 1977, Al continued to serve the military community as a training specialist in the New Equipment Training Branch of the Directorate of Training and Doctrine (DOTD) until his final retirement in 1994. Al was also a member of the Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA), the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and 114th Aviation Company Association.

A long-time resident of Enterprise, Al was deeply dedicated to his community. Alongside his wife, Mary, he was incredibly active in the Fort Rucker Chapel community, serving for decades as a member and head usher of the 11AM Main Post Chapel service. Together, Al and Mary were honored as Fort Rucker’s Volunteers of the Year, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award in April 2012. They were also recognized by the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps with the prestigious Aaron and Hur Award in October 1997. Additionally, both were vital volunteers with the Fort Rucker Chapel’s Living Last Supper ministry from its inception in 1979 through its 40th anniversary in 2019.

Al will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his distinguished service to his country, and his deep love for his family. He is now peacefully reunited with his beloved wife Mary.