Alfred L Vampola

Dr. Alfred L. Vampola of Fallbrook, California, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. Born on July 10,1934 in Dwight Nebraska, son of Ludwig Anton Vampola and Pauline Christine (Trousil) Vampola. Alfred ("Al") moved to Bee Nebraska as a child and eventually to Omaha Nebraska. He attended Creighton Prep High School and then received a full scholarship to Creighton University where he met his future wife, Karen Kirkwood. Immediately following their wedding, they moved to St. Louis, Missouri where he attended St. Louis Missouri University and received a Master of Science, and then a PHD in Physics in 1961. He and Karen then moved to California and ended up in Torrance where they lived for 48 years, raising 8 children. He worked for Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo as a Senior Staff Scientist until he retired in 1990.

Al was a Boy Scout leader for many years as he raised 6 sons. As a leader, he enjoyed mentoring many young men. He enjoyed backpacking, traveling, brewing beer, and cooking. He was an expert marksman and enjoyed sharing his love for competitive shooting with his family. Al was very involved with his church in Torrance. He was a Eucharistic Minister for many years, and even after he retired, he continued as a Eucharistic Minister to the home-bound until he moved to Fallbrook in 2011. Al was a Knight with the Knights of Columbus for much of his adult life

Al led a life marked by intellectual curiosity, professional excellence, and deep devotion to his family and community. Al was known for his contributions to science and education, earning the respect of colleagues and students alike. His career as a nuclear physicist was defined by a commitment to advancing knowledge around radiation effects in space as well as mentoring the next generation of thinkers.

Beyond his professional achievements, Al was a beloved husband, father, and friend. He shared his life with Karen A. Vampola, his cherished partner and best friend, and together they built a home filled with warmth and generosity. Those who knew Al remember his gentle demeanor, sharp wit, and unwavering integrity. Some will even remember him as "Sir Alfred". Al also had a tremendous love of animals and was always seen with dogs on his lap.

Al was proceeded in death by his wife Karen, his parents, and his brother Lawrence Vampola. Alfred is survived by his two sisters,Lorrene Kowal and Bernardette Kowal as well as a loving extended family including 8 children and their spouses, Joseph Vampola, John Vampola, Elaine Phipps, Mary Miller, Mark Vampola, Robert Vampola, James Vampola, and Donald Vampola, 33 grandchildren, and 42 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of kindness and wisdom.

A private memorial service was held at St. Peter the Apostle Church in Fallbrook to honor and celebrate his life. He will be buried at Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside California.