1941 – 2015

FARMINGTON — Alfred J. Schau, 74, of Lewiston, died Friday at Sandy River Center in Farmington, where he was a resident since January 2013.

Al was born in Elizabeth, N.J., on Oct 6, 1941, to August and Evelyn (Smith) Schau. He grew up in Roselle, N.J., where he graduated from Abraham Clark High School.

In 1974 Al moved to Maine, built a house in Buckfield and lived off the grid for several years. In 1978 he graduated from the practical nursing program at C.M.V.T.I. in Auburn and began working at Stephens Memorial Hospital in Norway.

In 1981, at the age of 40, Al attended the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, where he was affectionately known as “Pop.” From 1981 to 1988 he served as a patrol officer with the Auburn Police Dept. After two years in Freeport he joined the Lewiston Police Dept., where he served 15 years, retiring in 2005. During his career Al was commended by the department and recognized for his assistance to those in need.

Al is survived by daughter, Joanne Tomasko, and son, James Schau of Egg Harbor City, N.J.; son, Edward Schau of Ocala, Fla.; brother, August Schau of Buckfield; and sister, Linda Loretto of Brooksville.

He was predeceased by his parents and his friend and caregiver, Joanne Snyder of Lewiston.