My deepest sympathies to the family. I had the honor and pleasure of officiating volleyball with Al. He always had a great positive and fun dispositon. I am glad that I had the chance to have Al as a friend and will deeply miss him.
I will always have many fond memories of Al's big bright smile and the many conversations in the hallways of SLMS that spanned a myriad of topics. His joy and warmth was always a comfort at the Middle School! Pat, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May our dear Lord bring you comfort and may all of the wonderful memories sustain you in these difficult days.
Al and I used to coach together at AMLL...I tell Al's story (as he told me) at least once a year to locals...I was telling a young man the other day about Al's loss of patience when he played in the series with the Pirates (1960)..He was doing real good but he was YOUNG...So, as the coach told Al 'Ya did good but go sit on the bench now'...Al couldn't be patient so he walked...He learned a BIG lesson that day and it helped ME to learn and I will ALWAYS tell his story to the young and impatient !
I know he's playing in the BIG leauges NOW...I haven't seen Al in a good number of years but I'll never forget the PRO ballplayer I used to coach with...Rest in Peace buddy.
