Chowchilla City Councilman Alfred Ginsburg, 87, died Monday evening in a local hospital. He devoted much of his life to service to his community.
"He spent twice as much time in meetings than I have been alive," said fellow Chowchilla City Councilman Justin White, 28.
Ginsburg began his public service at the age of 26 and served close to 20 years on the Chowchilla City Council with several terms as mayor. He served 22 years on the Madera County Board of Supervisors, where he also served as chairman, and spent 23 years on the Local Agency Formation Commission. He also served on the Local Transportation Commission and Authority, the Madera County Civil Service Commission, Chowchilla Industrial Developmental Corporation and the San Joaquin River Conservancy.
"I truly believe that Al Ginsburg was not a politician, but rather a statesman, who dedicated his life to public service. His passing will affect us all for many years. But his impact on our lives will last for generations."
Born Feb. 25, 1920, the Tulare native moved to Chowchilla at age 10 with his parents and lived there for 76 years. He attended Chowchilla elementary and high schools and earned a degree in business administration from Fresno State College. His professional career included owning a family shoe store and farming for almost 30 years.
He married his wife Pat in 1950 and they had three sons, David, Mike and Matt; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The couple spearheaded fundraising to build the new Chowchilla branch library and have a room in it dedicated to them for their efforts.
In honor of his passing, the Madera County Board of Supervisors has ordered that flags on all county buildings be flown at half staff in his memory until after his funeral service.
Services are pending under the direction of Lisle Funeral Home, 1605 L St., Fresno, CA 93721, 266-0666.
Tami Jo Nix Tami Jo Nix is a senior staff writer, photographer and community / features writer for the Madera Tribune. You can contact Tami Jo at 674.8134 ext. 231 or e-mail at tamijo (at) maderatribune.net
Tami Jo also handles community calendar items and wedding announcements.
