Memories of Al
From fellow engineer Nadeem Majaj:
I am very saddened by the departure of Al. For me, Al was not another work-colleague. He was a professional mentor and a good friend. I have known Al throughout my career as a good engineer, an ethical public servant and a good friend. I always felt special when he invited me to his annual smoke-house barbeques. He played a notable role in many of the positive aspects of my professional career. It started when I met him in 1985 as a Junior Engineer, during a one-month orientation at the County’s Hydrology Section. Al mentored and enlightened me as to the roles and responsibilities of honest and transparent public service. Those conversations resonated with me as I grew into leadership roles. He was an independent thinker who based his technical, social and political positions on what is most ethical and good for society. There were no compromises in this.Al was passionate and transparent about everything he took interest in, even the adventurous skydiving he did, where he dove in formations that were dangerous and breathtaking. He was a remarkable athlete too. I recall many conversations about scuba-diving, running and swimming.• His passion for hydrology and hydraulics was unsurpassed and he was always ready to launch into an animated hydrological lecture. He spoke of water as if it were a living being. Early in his career, he co-authored one of the most important flood control guidance documents in Orange County, the Hydrology Manual.... ...I was very fortunate to chair Al’s retirement lunch, where hundreds of professionals and friends attended to honor Al. I recall that several of Al’s friends and I recited many of Al’s wise and passionate sayings. We called them Alisms. Finally, I am glad that I had an opportunity to visit Al and Allene, just prior to the pandemic outbreak. That visit will be etched in my memory, as my final goodbye to my friend, Al. Al, you will be tremendously missed my friend. Nadeem Majaj – December 19, 2020
From neighbor Sara Chesters:
I will always cherish the many fun, delicious and raucous evenings we all shared together at ladies and gentleman's book club, often the highlight of my month. And also Al's kindness teaching Joa math (a thankless task) and a couple of years ago as he tried to help me understand how to prune my vines without removing my fingers - or his. A true gentleman, a scholar and a kind soul and also a much appreciated acerbic wit.