Mon, 02 Jan 2017 02:17:06 +0000

MV Santa
GTS250, 1960 VBA, 1975 VBC, 1980 P200E cutdown
Joined: Tue, 04 May 2010 16:25:07 +0000
Posts: 4679
Location: Sedgwick, Kansas
 
MV Santa
GTS250, 1960 VBA, 1975 VBC, 1980 P200E cutdown
Joined: Tue, 04 May 2010 16:25:07 +0000
Posts: 4679
Location: Sedgwick, Kansas
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 02:17:06 +0000 quote
I've been thinking all day about what to say. I knew I had to say something but what more could I add that hasn't already been said.

Whenever I saw that Al had commented on any subject I knew that I had to read it carefully and school was in session. Eyes front. Here comes the straight dope. Take notes. There will be a quiz later. He would argue his point backed up by facts. He was a mentor to us all. His kind will not come this way again.

He will be missed.

Matthew TenBarge
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 02:23:07 +0000

Molto Verboso
Mia Dolce II 2017 GTV 300, Ragazzo Vespa 946, Il Pazzo BV 350, & Mia Dolce GTV 250 -sold-
Joined: Sun, 03 Jan 2010 18:42:46 +0000
Posts: 1729
Location: Oak Island NC
 
Molto Verboso
Mia Dolce II 2017 GTV 300, Ragazzo Vespa 946, Il Pazzo BV 350, & Mia Dolce GTV 250 -sold-
Joined: Sun, 03 Jan 2010 18:42:46 +0000
Posts: 1729
Location: Oak Island NC
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 02:23:07 +0000 quote
So sorry that we've lost this gem of a human from this life. I hope there are scooters in the next one.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 03:01:46 +0000

Veni, Vidi, Posti
Neutrino MP3 492.7 AK, 2013 Moto Guzzi Norge
Joined: Sun, 30 Mar 2008 04:38:24 +0000
Posts: 22249
Location: Harriman, Tennessee, Tn
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
Neutrino MP3 492.7 AK, 2013 Moto Guzzi Norge
Joined: Sun, 30 Mar 2008 04:38:24 +0000
Posts: 22249
Location: Harriman, Tennessee, Tn
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 03:01:46 +0000 quote
Al is missed by many. I only have had the pleasure of talking to him thru MV. One get person for sure.

God Speed Al.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 03:05:40 +0000

Veni, Vidi, Posti
Neutrino MP3 492.7 AK, 2013 Moto Guzzi Norge
Joined: Sun, 30 Mar 2008 04:38:24 +0000
Posts: 22249
Location: Harriman, Tennessee, Tn
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
Neutrino MP3 492.7 AK, 2013 Moto Guzzi Norge
Joined: Sun, 30 Mar 2008 04:38:24 +0000
Posts: 22249
Location: Harriman, Tennessee, Tn
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 03:05:40 +0000 quote
everybody lets give Al 1 last thumbs up and make him the the most karma roundels. find a post and let do this.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 03:06:58 +0000

Petty Tyrant
0:7 And counting
Joined: Wed, 12 Oct 2005 05:12:11 +0000
Posts: 34935
Location: Bay Area, California
 
Petty Tyrant
0:7 And counting
Joined: Wed, 12 Oct 2005 05:12:11 +0000
Posts: 34935
Location: Bay Area, California
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 03:06:58 +0000 quote
Ooof. This has weighed heavily on me for the last two days.

Al was a remarkable man, and I am better for having known him -- which makes his loss that much harder. Funny when he wanted to be, and pointed when he needed to be. Often at the same time. I made Al a moderator before I ever met him (such is the way of internet forums) and then finally met him in person during the 2010 Italy tour. I treasure that trip, and all the great friends I made there in that short time.

It's actually really difficult to convey exactly how big of a void Al's passing leaves, not just here at MV but IRL, and for all of us who had the honor of knowing him.

As a note of protocol, MV lost two really good staff members in 2016. I had been planning on reverting the forum colors back to normal on January 1st (today), as it had been long enough (I think) since Julie's passing. With Al's passing, though, I'll leave it as it is. It looks like we will be in mourning for a while longer.



Mon, 02 Jan 2017 05:10:35 +0000

Veni, Vidi, Posti
2009 GTV250 (Gone), 2003 Inder trailer (also gone), 2001 BMW R1100RT
Joined: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:30:36 +0000
Posts: 5707
Location: Santa Cruz California
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
2009 GTV250 (Gone), 2003 Inder trailer (also gone), 2001 BMW R1100RT
Joined: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:30:36 +0000
Posts: 5707
Location: Santa Cruz California
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 05:10:35 +0000 quote
I always appreciated Al's posts. Always well thought out and technically sound. He was always a gentleman. I wish I had someone like him on my everyday life.
OP
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 09:32:24 +0000

El Macho
KTM Super Duke 1290, Vespa GTS 300
Joined: Fri, 27 Oct 2006 20:38:33 +0000
Posts: 9044
Location: Porto 4050-570
 
El Macho
KTM Super Duke 1290, Vespa GTS 300
Joined: Fri, 27 Oct 2006 20:38:33 +0000
Posts: 9044
Location: Porto 4050-570
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 09:32:24 +0000 quote
That's a great picture Jess, of all of us hanging on Al's every word as he holds court. I can't help but chuckle at Ardy's enigmatic smile, which might say, I've heard that one before. A fine memory; I'll never forget him and how he catalysed a number of friendships.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 13:43:36 +0000

Ossessionato
Vespa GTS
Joined: Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:11:50 +0000
Posts: 4750
Location: Maynard MA and Cape Cod
 
Ossessionato
Vespa GTS
Joined: Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:11:50 +0000
Posts: 4750
Location: Maynard MA and Cape Cod
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 13:43:36 +0000 quote
So sad. What a terrible loss for our group of friends.
I'm wishing the best for his family.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 13:59:36 +0000

Veni, Vidi, Posti
2006 Vespa GT (Rocket): 2005 Vespa GT (Razzo): 2007 Vespa GT (Vanessa): 2009 Yamaha Zuma 125: 2018 Yamaha Xmax (Big Ugly), 2023 Vespa GTS300 (Ghost)
Joined: Tue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:37 +0000
Posts: 5116
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
2006 Vespa GT (Rocket): 2005 Vespa GT (Razzo): 2007 Vespa GT (Vanessa): 2009 Yamaha Zuma 125: 2018 Yamaha Xmax (Big Ugly), 2023 Vespa GTS300 (Ghost)
Joined: Tue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:37 +0000
Posts: 5116
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 13:59:36 +0000 quote
I feel so fortunate to have met Al and Ardy this year while Sarah and I enjoyed our first adventure with the Vespa Club del Mediterraneo. It was wonderful.

She and I had a few conversations with Al and it was clear the love he had for the group. And you could see how everyone loved Al. Our last talk was a lengthy discussion outside the front door to the hotel in Poggibonsi. He was so filled with fun stories.

I am so sorry that it was the only gathering where we would be able to spend time with such a fine man.

I looked through my photos and came up with this one I shot while on the ferry to Elba. He looked to be having a fine time.



Mon, 02 Jan 2017 16:38:09 +0000

Addicted
2006 250ie
Joined: Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:14:04 +0000
Posts: 571
Location: Bellingham, WA
 
Addicted
2006 250ie
Joined: Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:14:04 +0000
Posts: 571
Location: Bellingham, WA
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 16:38:09 +0000 quote
Al's flag waving "welcome to MV from the sunny Aegean" to new members will be missed. Rest in peace, Al. My thoughts are with your family.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 17:46:42 +0000

Ossessionato
Triumph Bonneville 2022, Triumph Street Scrambler 2018 (sold), Suzuki VanVan200 (sold), 2015 Sprint 125 (sold)
Joined: Sun, 12 Apr 2015 19:52:24 +0000
Posts: 3043
Location: Finland
 
Ossessionato
Triumph Bonneville 2022, Triumph Street Scrambler 2018 (sold), Suzuki VanVan200 (sold), 2015 Sprint 125 (sold)
Joined: Sun, 12 Apr 2015 19:52:24 +0000
Posts: 3043
Location: Finland
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 17:46:42 +0000 quote
He looks so happy and energetic in all the pics, I'm sure he lived a full life.
Never met him, but always payed attention when he made contribution in MV - and he did that a lot.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 18:02:07 +0000

Ossessionato
2017 BMW R1200GS and 2010 Vespa GTS 250 (shared)
Joined: Sun, 30 Aug 2009 16:34:06 +0000
Posts: 4213
Location: San Diego
 
Ossessionato
2017 BMW R1200GS and 2010 Vespa GTS 250 (shared)
Joined: Sun, 30 Aug 2009 16:34:06 +0000
Posts: 4213
Location: San Diego
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 18:02:07 +0000 quote
A Profound Loss
Hello all-

Haven't been around much. I learned of Al's passing on another social media platform from a mutual "friend". I was thunderstruck.

Since my first visits to this site, Aviator 47 has been a true leader, great source and good friend to many who sought information and advise. He welcomed all who were interested in visiting his cherished islands and if the pages of MV are any testament to his legacy it is a large, warm and open-hearted one.

It is my loss to have never actually met him.

Rest easy Al. You did more for many than most.

My condolences to the family and friends that grieve you.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 18:34:18 +0000

Member
GTS 250,P-200,Rally-200,Honda CB160,Ninja Rabbit
Joined: Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:52:49 +0000
Posts: 41
Location: Campbell, CA
 
Member
GTS 250,P-200,Rally-200,Honda CB160,Ninja Rabbit
Joined: Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:52:49 +0000
Posts: 41
Location: Campbell, CA
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 18:34:18 +0000 quote
So sad to find this.

I was always was so impressed by his contributions to our community. He was another key to this being such a great forum and will be deeply missed here.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 19:05:59 +0000

Veni, Vidi, Posti
2007 Vespa LX 190, 2011 LXV150ie
Joined: Mon, 27 Oct 2008 02:17:14 +0000
Posts: 8747
Location: Annapolis, MD, USA
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
2007 Vespa LX 190, 2011 LXV150ie
Joined: Mon, 27 Oct 2008 02:17:14 +0000
Posts: 8747
Location: Annapolis, MD, USA
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 19:05:59 +0000 quote
I'm truly shocked and devastated.

There are many adjectives that could be used to describe Al, but fair, generous, and incredibly knowledgeable come to mind.

Though I never had the opportunity to meet him face-to-face, my wife Deborah and I are forever in his debt for the assistance he lent us in planning our unforgettable scooter-borne honeymoon in Tuscany.

Ride on, Al.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 19:21:03 +0000

Molto Verboso
21 75th Anniv. Primavera, 10 GTS Super 300, 64 Allstate, 61 VNB, 61 GL, 61 Lammy LI 125 Mahi Shriner, 57 Lammy LD125
Joined: Wed, 10 May 2006 02:26:43 +0000
Posts: 1411
Location: Baltimore-Washington-Asbury Park at the Jersey Shore
 
Molto Verboso
21 75th Anniv. Primavera, 10 GTS Super 300, 64 Allstate, 61 VNB, 61 GL, 61 Lammy LI 125 Mahi Shriner, 57 Lammy LD125
Joined: Wed, 10 May 2006 02:26:43 +0000
Posts: 1411
Location: Baltimore-Washington-Asbury Park at the Jersey Shore
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 19:21:03 +0000 quote
We biologists obsess with measurements. We measure a life by its impact on its surroundings. A dry blade of grass withers unnoticed. Not Al. He was that huge forest tree who gave shade, nourishment and protection. In seconds, Al made friends of strangers, he made his friends into their friends, and he caused at least one marriage among us. Even those of you on MV who never met him could tell that he was a master of wisdom, checklists, and generosity. But after the last leaf has fallen and the trunk tips over, the tree still influences and nourishes its environment for many years before vanishing. We are a community because of Al, and we will carry on because of his influence.

In Al's honor, we of the Vespa Club del Mediterraneo will do a simultaneous ride on Sunday, January 8th at 10 am US Pacific time (actually the 9th in Asia and the western Pacific). Al's impact was such that people will be riding in many time zones around the world. I'll make a separate post about that ride but want to give you a heads up.

For me, it was a privilege to go on four of Al's European scooter adventures, including his first in 2009 and last a couple of months ago. Here are two pics from Tuscany in 2012, including some of the best company and pizza I've ever had, and Al's saintly wife who has my heartfelt condolences.





Mon, 02 Jan 2017 21:10:34 +0000

Addicted
Vespa Rally 180 BMW R1150R Suzuki Burgman 400
Joined: Fri, 30 Mar 2007 16:04:03 +0000
Posts: 871
Location: Royal Oak, Michigan, USA
 
Addicted
Vespa Rally 180 BMW R1150R Suzuki Burgman 400
Joined: Fri, 30 Mar 2007 16:04:03 +0000
Posts: 871
Location: Royal Oak, Michigan, USA
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 21:10:34 +0000 quote
I'm gutted and missing Al already. He was a most delightful Vespa enthusiast and wonderful conversationalist/writer. A knowledgable diplomat, he could gently guide you back to the conversation without you even knowing that he was doing it -- totally smooth. Of course, he was passionate about so many things and that rubbed off on us all. Aviator47 was a great spirit and we are all poorer without him.
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 23:15:07 +0000

Gobshite Shiva
Kymco Downtown 300i the 'Dolphin Noise'
Joined: Fri, 16 Mar 2007 18:55:43 +0000
Posts: 14960
Location: London UK
 
Gobshite Shiva
Kymco Downtown 300i the 'Dolphin Noise'
Joined: Fri, 16 Mar 2007 18:55:43 +0000
Posts: 14960
Location: London UK
Mon, 02 Jan 2017 23:15:07 +0000 quote
Al was an original. A force of nature. A proper old-school gentleman. A raconteur, a scholar, a guy who could fix pretty much anything, who could charm pretty much anyone, and who knew, better than anyone I've ever met, how to live life well. It's hard to believe that he's gone.

I had the pleasure of spending time with Al and Ardy in Greece on the first scooter rally in 2009 - and had such a great time that I went back again in 2010. Al went to the trouble of getting marble trophies made up for the winners in all of the various events - I still have a little flock of them around the house. Al kept inviting me back, and I kept promising that I'd visit, and somehow I never got around to it. I'll always regret that.

Ardy, my most sincere and heartfelt condolences.

Godspeed Al.


With Billy on the top of Aghios Ilias, May 2010


On the balcony of the Hotel Adonis, Apollonas, May 2009

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 00:49:00 +0000

Moto Giro Titan
2009 GTS 250 Super Lucrezia Borgia, 2013 Ducati Hyperstrada, Little Big Red,2020 Zero SR/S, Zeus, Electric Dragon
Joined: Wed, 04 Feb 2009 21:42:56 +0000
Posts: 2658
Location: Carrollton, Kentucky
 
Moto Giro Titan
2009 GTS 250 Super Lucrezia Borgia, 2013 Ducati Hyperstrada, Little Big Red,2020 Zero SR/S, Zeus, Electric Dragon
Joined: Wed, 04 Feb 2009 21:42:56 +0000
Posts: 2658
Location: Carrollton, Kentucky
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 00:49:00 +0000 quote
I went back and found a few pics that showed Al in his element, telling stories, holding forth, and making everyone feel like they were still having that happy childhood.


Farewell dinner in Barcelona, 2013.


Explaining a fine point of local history on Paros, 2014 Greek Islands


Al at home, welcoming the group for a visit.

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 01:51:28 +0000

Ossessionato
2012 BMW G650GS, 2006 GTS,
Joined: Mon, 16 Jan 2006 00:58:49 +0000
Posts: 2090
Location: Snohomish County, WA
 
Ossessionato
2012 BMW G650GS, 2006 GTS,
Joined: Mon, 16 Jan 2006 00:58:49 +0000
Posts: 2090
Location: Snohomish County, WA
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 01:51:28 +0000 quote
A bummer to hear.
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 01:53:08 +0000

Molto Verboso
'12 GTS 300 Super
Joined: Mon, 25 Feb 2013 19:33:40 +0000
Posts: 1248
Location: Austin TX
 
Molto Verboso
'12 GTS 300 Super
Joined: Mon, 25 Feb 2013 19:33:40 +0000
Posts: 1248
Location: Austin TX
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 01:53:08 +0000 quote
old as dirt wrote:
everybody lets give Al 1 last thumbs up and make him the the most karma roundels. find a post and let do this.
I will miss that little waving flag. After I read OAD'S quote from above, I thought to myself that it sounded like the right thing to do. So, I go to the last listed post. His words were "great news". It seemed like a cruel irony.

Then I saw that others had already upvoted, so I added my thumbs up there as well. There's no way to describe how inadequate it felt, yet worth doing.

He rode the good ride...
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 03:34:21 +0000

Member
Joined: Sat, 15 Jun 2013 01:41:04 +0000
Posts: 26

 
Member
Joined: Sat, 15 Jun 2013 01:41:04 +0000
Posts: 26

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 03:34:21 +0000 quote
Μπορεί η μνήμη του ποτέ διαρκείας... 🇬🇷
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 10:27:13 +0000

saggezza di scala
2009 'Burma Shave' Red GTS 250ie
Joined: Sat, 13 Mar 2010 17:13:49 +0000
Posts: 7037
Location: Israel
 
saggezza di scala
2009 'Burma Shave' Red GTS 250ie
Joined: Sat, 13 Mar 2010 17:13:49 +0000
Posts: 7037
Location: Israel
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 10:27:13 +0000 quote
WLeuthold wrote:
I looked through my photos and came up with this one I shot while on the ferry to Elba. He looked to be having a fine time.
Having never met Al in person, I only know him from his posts, our many PMs and the pictures folks have posted over the years (and here in this thread).

I think I love this photo that WLeuthold posted the best. While the other pics show Al by his scooter, eating with friends, laughing at a joke... this one shows an inner contentment that was instantly apparent to anyone who ever met him (even via PM).

The people I've meet that seem to have caused the most disturbance and upheaval in my life seem to have all been twitchy, nervous folks full of self-doubt, personal prejudices and half-formed ideas.

Al was the polar opposite.

Though vivacious and energetic, he exuded calm, thoughtful introspection and level-headedness. He was open to new information and ideas; even if they challenged long held beliefs. But he brooked no evasion or superstitions. Al worshiped at the alter of empirical data, repeatable experiences and leaving nothing to chance.

He must have been a hell of a pilot. And not surprisingly, he also seems to have been a hell of a friend.

This pic with Al basking in the warm sunlight on his face... breathing in the scent of a sea breeze... listening intently to the sound of distant surf... that is the look of contentment.

If one frequently feels that things are amiss or out of sorts in their life, and that contentment seems like an illusive, unattainable goal... keeping this picture handy as a reminder of what deep personal contentment really looks like, wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.

Nobody knows for sure where we go when we're gone... but I'd like to think it is a place with a warm sun, pleasant smells and the soft sound of distant surf.

And Al will be waiting there for us with a good story and a great meal.



Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:05:09 +0000

Molto Verboso
2009 GTS 250ie "Jigokuchou" 2001 ET2 "Luna"
Joined: Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:10:22 +0000
Posts: 1570
Location: Minneapolis MN
 
Molto Verboso
2009 GTS 250ie "Jigokuchou" 2001 ET2 "Luna"
Joined: Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:10:22 +0000
Posts: 1570
Location: Minneapolis MN
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:05:09 +0000 quote
There truly aren't any words. If there were, they've already been said by folks who knew Al in real life.

Even for those who only knew Aviator online, his loss is keenly felt.
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 16:05:43 +0000

Moderatus Rana
MP3 250 and 2 MP3 500s
Joined: Fri, 11 Jul 2008 17:56:22 +0000
Posts: 22488
Location: Nashville, Indiana
 
Moderatus Rana
MP3 250 and 2 MP3 500s
Joined: Fri, 11 Jul 2008 17:56:22 +0000
Posts: 22488
Location: Nashville, Indiana
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 16:05:43 +0000 quote
Even though I never met Al in person I feel I knew him pretty well from posts here, on facebook and in the moderator's lounge where he always had sound and balanced input on how to handle situations that arose needing moderation. It is also obvious what a wonderful man he was based on the remembrances of people who knew him. I will always regret not yet taking him up on his open invitation to visit him in Paros.

Godspeed on this transformation Al and condolences to you Ardy and his family and friends.
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 16:30:25 +0000

Ossessionato
GTS 250 "Audrey"
Joined: Sat, 31 May 2008 18:27:17 +0000
Posts: 2117
Location: New Harbor, Maine
 
Ossessionato
GTS 250 "Audrey"
Joined: Sat, 31 May 2008 18:27:17 +0000
Posts: 2117
Location: New Harbor, Maine
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 16:30:25 +0000 quote
Shocked and saddened. Selfishly I'll miss his posts and contributions. I've learned much from him and will miss the opportunity to learn more.

Wonderful tributes to Al from those posting before me. Heart-felt condolences to Ardy and his family and friends.
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 17:16:08 +0000

Ossessionato
Piaggio BV250
Joined: Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:36:46 +0000
Posts: 2429
Location: Historic Route 66 in Oklahoma
 
Ossessionato
Piaggio BV250
Joined: Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:36:46 +0000
Posts: 2429
Location: Historic Route 66 in Oklahoma
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 17:16:08 +0000 quote
Based upon my many exchanges with Al. I believe him to have been a truly honorable man in any of his thinking or actions.

Godspeed, Al.
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 18:39:32 +0000

Grumpy Biker
1980 Vespa P200e (sold), 2002 Vespa ET4 (sold), 1949 Harley-Davidson FL
Joined: Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:56:36 +0000
Posts: 5154
Location: Sparks, Nevada, USA
 
Grumpy Biker
1980 Vespa P200e (sold), 2002 Vespa ET4 (sold), 1949 Harley-Davidson FL
Joined: Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:56:36 +0000
Posts: 5154
Location: Sparks, Nevada, USA
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 18:39:32 +0000 quote
Oh dang. I just saw this. I'm very sad to read of Al's passing. I always enjoyed his posts.

RIP Al. You will be missed.

-Craig
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 19:00:25 +0000

Ossessionato
2007 250 GTS, 1980 P200E, 2010 ThunderFly 190 (SOLD) 2015 Yamaha SMax
Joined: Sat, 30 Apr 2011 02:56:59 +0000
Posts: 3274
Location: Springboro, OH
 
Ossessionato
2007 250 GTS, 1980 P200E, 2010 ThunderFly 190 (SOLD) 2015 Yamaha SMax
Joined: Sat, 30 Apr 2011 02:56:59 +0000
Posts: 3274
Location: Springboro, OH
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 19:00:25 +0000 quote
I'm very saddened to hear of Al's passing. His contributions here on MV were significant, and I offer my deepest condolences to his family and friends who knew him personally.

We have lost a great voice in our community and a strong ambassador of goodwill and good times all over the world.

Al will be greatly missed.
Wed, 04 Jan 2017 01:16:43 +0000

Hooked
2016 GTS 300 Settantesimo Grigio Pulsar
Joined: Wed, 13 Apr 2016 13:36:47 +0000
Posts: 498
Location: San Antonio, Texas
 
Hooked
2016 GTS 300 Settantesimo Grigio Pulsar
Joined: Wed, 13 Apr 2016 13:36:47 +0000
Posts: 498
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Wed, 04 Jan 2017 01:16:43 +0000 quote
R.I.P. Aviator. May all of our lives touch others as his did.
Wed, 04 Jan 2017 02:47:52 +0000

Ossessionato
2012 Kymco Like 200i (Sold), 2018 FLSL
Joined: Mon, 04 Jun 2012 17:16:53 +0000
Posts: 2756
Location: San Jose, CA
 
Ossessionato
2012 Kymco Like 200i (Sold), 2018 FLSL
Joined: Mon, 04 Jun 2012 17:16:53 +0000
Posts: 2756
Location: San Jose, CA
Wed, 04 Jan 2017 02:47:52 +0000 quote
I just read through the posts. It seems unreal. My condolences to his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace.
Wed, 04 Jan 2017 16:55:54 +0000

Moderator
2010 Dragon Red GTS 300 Super, 2018 Grigio Titanio Piaggio Liberty S 150
Joined: Tue, 11 Jul 2006 12:24:52 +0000
Posts: 16293
Location: Toronto, Canada, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
 
Moderator
2010 Dragon Red GTS 300 Super, 2018 Grigio Titanio Piaggio Liberty S 150
Joined: Tue, 11 Jul 2006 12:24:52 +0000
Posts: 16293
Location: Toronto, Canada, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Wed, 04 Jan 2017 16:55:54 +0000 quote
RIP Al, you will be missed by many many people both here and in real life.
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 00:44:42 +0000

Hooked
Joined: Mon, 06 Jan 2014 01:52:09 +0000
Posts: 208
Location: glen burnie md
 
Hooked
Joined: Mon, 06 Jan 2014 01:52:09 +0000
Posts: 208
Location: glen burnie md
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 00:44:42 +0000 quote
Wow another chopper driver has passed. Thatcsucks I never met the gentleman but we shared the same training and many similar flying experiences
As another forum member said every time I see a ch47 fly near me I will think c of the gentlemen fondly
Fly high sir with the wind always at your back
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 02:36:03 +0000

Hooked
Scooterless (Previously owned Ruckus, Zuma, Burgman 400, GTS 250 & 300, & BV 350)
Joined: Wed, 02 Apr 2014 17:42:41 +0000
Posts: 303
Location: Saint Augustine, Florida
 
Hooked
Scooterless (Previously owned Ruckus, Zuma, Burgman 400, GTS 250 & 300, & BV 350)
Joined: Wed, 02 Apr 2014 17:42:41 +0000
Posts: 303
Location: Saint Augustine, Florida
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 02:36:03 +0000 quote
RIP Aviator47 - An Officer & A Gentleman
Never met Al in person. However, I did have some private messages with him on MV about traveling to Greece and we shared some stories about our time in the service.

Al retired from the U.S. Army (as a Colonel) and I retired from the U.S. Marine Corps. However, prior to his time in the Army, Al was a U.S. Marine!

Here is his message to me about how he ended up leaving the Marines and serving in the Army as an aviator...

From: Aviator47
To: SEVANS
Posted: Fri Nov 13, 2015 3:12 pm

Shane

I spent 6 yrs in the Corps (3 active, 3 drilling reserve), was on the waiting list for MARCAD, but aging faster than the list was being drawn from.

Was having a beer with an Army Colonel from my home town (had dated his daughter a few times, and had always been a gentleman) who was on his terminal assignment in NY to be close to home, and he suggested I consider flying for the Army.

Being a good Marine, I said, "With all due respect, Sir, what the hell does the Army fly? Kites and balloons?" His response was "Spoken like a true Marine. We have more helos than the Corps has aircraft. Be in my office at 9 in the morning and I will have your ass in flight school within 30 days."

Had no idea how he could pull it off, but figured a Full Bird must have had some connections. Got there at 9 and learned, for the first time, that he was the Director for Officer Procurement for the Northeast US. He had a SgtMaj at the ready to run me through the whole process. Asked for my Reserve Unit's phone number to get my Skipper to sign a release. Skipper said to have me run it by his civilian office on my way home and he would sign it, which he did.

Met the Colonel at the pub and gave it to him. He told me that he'd swear me in on 12 Oct, a few days off, as that was the day I first swore into the Corps. Since it was a holiday, we did the swearing in at the pub. 15 days later, I shipped to Flight School.

29 years later, I retired, having served as Enlisted (E-5), Warrant Officer (CWO-2) and Commissioned Officer (O-6).

Loved every minute of it.

Semper Fi!

Al
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 03:39:49 +0000

Veni, Vidi, Posti
2009 GTV250 (Gone), 2003 Inder trailer (also gone), 2001 BMW R1100RT
Joined: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:30:36 +0000
Posts: 5707
Location: Santa Cruz California
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
2009 GTV250 (Gone), 2003 Inder trailer (also gone), 2001 BMW R1100RT
Joined: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:30:36 +0000
Posts: 5707
Location: Santa Cruz California
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 03:39:49 +0000 quote
^^^Nice! Thanks for that.

Best
Miguel
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 09:58:05 +0000

Hooked
2017 GTS Super 300ie 'Sofia', 2014 Suzuki SV650
Joined: Tue, 08 Oct 2013 11:49:03 +0000
Posts: 429
Location: Berlin, Germany
 
Hooked
2017 GTS Super 300ie 'Sofia', 2014 Suzuki SV650
Joined: Tue, 08 Oct 2013 11:49:03 +0000
Posts: 429
Location: Berlin, Germany
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 09:58:05 +0000 quote
I'm coming to this news a bit late, but the lateness makes it no less shocking.

This is very sad as it means that I will never meet the man who was a MV legend in my eyes. Someone above has already noted that if a thread had a message from Aviator47, that it was going to be a good one. I feel this way exactly.

Also sadly enough, he and I had been emailing back and forth about me joining for the 2017 version of the Vespa Club del Mediteranneo ride.

ModernVespa has lost one of the greats.
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 14:44:34 +0000

Addicted
Yamaha XMAX 300, Sprint 150, PX 177 Polini.
Joined: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 03:53:38 +0000
Posts: 620

 
Addicted
Yamaha XMAX 300, Sprint 150, PX 177 Polini.
Joined: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 03:53:38 +0000
Posts: 620

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 14:44:34 +0000 quote
I just want to say that the community aspect of this forum is amazing.
I teared up at the pic of of him enjoying the sun. What a great pic of a life enjoyed as part of a caring community.

RiP old man. Enjoy heavens roads.
Sat, 07 Jan 2017 03:16:29 +0000

Banned
2006 GTS 250
Joined: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:24:46 +0000
Posts: 10590
Location: KS USA
 
Banned
2006 GTS 250
Joined: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:24:46 +0000
Posts: 10590
Location: KS USA
Sat, 07 Jan 2017 03:16:29 +0000 quote
Here on MV he was always making anything I said in jest. Great sense of humor.
Sun, 08 Jan 2017 15:58:28 +0000

Member
2016 GTS 300 ABS - midnight blue
Joined: Sun, 11 Oct 2015 01:03:55 +0000
Posts: 32
Location: South Baltimore
 
Member
2016 GTS 300 ABS - midnight blue
Joined: Sun, 11 Oct 2015 01:03:55 +0000
Posts: 32
Location: South Baltimore
Sun, 08 Jan 2017 15:58:28 +0000 quote
I just randomly came across an article from the latest issue of Scootering magazine January 2017. It mentions Al several times. It is an article about their latest scooter tour in Tuscany. The article is several pages long with some great photos of the trip. Makes me want to go on the next one. It probably wouldn't be the same without Al though☹️.
Sun, 08 Jan 2017 23:30:59 +0000

Veni, Vidi, Posti
2006 Vespa GT (Rocket): 2005 Vespa GT (Razzo): 2007 Vespa GT (Vanessa): 2009 Yamaha Zuma 125: 2018 Yamaha Xmax (Big Ugly), 2023 Vespa GTS300 (Ghost)
Joined: Tue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:37 +0000
Posts: 5116
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
2006 Vespa GT (Rocket): 2005 Vespa GT (Razzo): 2007 Vespa GT (Vanessa): 2009 Yamaha Zuma 125: 2018 Yamaha Xmax (Big Ugly), 2023 Vespa GTS300 (Ghost)
Joined: Tue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:37 +0000
Posts: 5116
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Sun, 08 Jan 2017 23:30:59 +0000 quote
Bobo suggested that, in honor of Al (Aviator 47), all members attempt to ride at 1:00 Eastern Standard time today.

With two members in the area, actually four with our wives official members too, we decided to do the ride.

It was too cold for the wives, and it was Beverly's birthday, so it was just Tom and me with Russ (rwd1954) and Shane (SEVANS)

Sarah and Beverly were there in spirit.

We started at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, an appropriate place to honor a man of the military.

So, here's to Al.


Four scooterists riding for Al.

Mon, 09 Jan 2017 03:37:17 +0000

Molto Verboso
GTS 250
Joined: Sat, 24 Nov 2007 01:30:47 +0000
Posts: 1518
Location: Utah, USA
 
Molto Verboso
GTS 250
Joined: Sat, 24 Nov 2007 01:30:47 +0000
Posts: 1518
Location: Utah, USA
Mon, 09 Jan 2017 03:37:17 +0000 quote
^ ^ ^

What a great tribute, you guys! Thank you for doing that!

Salima
  DoubleGood Design  

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