The story
Al wanted to keep things simple . . . always. Just a couple of days before he passed, he and I sat on a bench overlooking Capitola Beach, and I asked how the memorial should go. He said, “very, very small.” Although Al had a fan base that spanned the gymnastic world, the surfer community, and all kinds of beautiful people everywhere, he was a humble guy that never wanted to be the center of attention; so, it was decided - a very small family dinner in LA to drink and laugh and tell our best Al Reilly stories . . . and a site where the many people in his world could connect with pictures, videos, and their very best Al Reilly stories.
Memory wall
7 tributes have been left in memory of Allan Reilly.
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Amber, Dedicating this song to you: Paul Simon - Father And Daughter
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Al will always live in all that is kind and gentle. Remember him always with laughter and love. Thank you Al for enriching my life.
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Al Reilly lived in a Rainbow where the Pot of Gold was in his heart. "Amber" in his heart sparked the love in all he has touched . . .
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Al - you taught me a lot about how to survive in this crazy world that has had an amazing long term impact and that I will hand down thru my family for generations. You taught me to ensure I surf, learn philosophy, enjoy music, respect people, introduce friends, but what I would most like to share with everyone reading is how you inadvertently taught me how to survive in the military which later led me to become a Diplomat. Al’s crazy stories, during our drives to and from the beach, of when he was in the military service included hitch hiking, partying, chain of command problems, and philosophy. In large part those stories enabled me to earn the rank of Sergeant in the USMC without any issues. And when I decided to leave the USMC his story as Moses, carrying a thick tree branch through the Vietnam War for defense in lieu of a gun stuck out most - it was time to put my gun in the ground, I couldn’t shoot/carry it anymore. Afterwards, I missed being in service to my country overseas so found a peaceful way to do so as a US Diplomat - because of Al.
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Don't forget to "register" with the site above first - before writing your message (it doesn't save.) Al Reilly - coach, mentor, and friend. So many great years coaching together as part of Sunnyvale Gymnastics Club - and later as friends in NorCal gymnastics. From 1980-87 we coached the teams in Sunnyvale together and would ride our bikes home after the nights work. 10pm from Sunnyvale to San Jose and Saturday afternoons. The occasional stop along the way for a meal. It was great times when they happened. Never to be forgotten, Al remained a friend whom I could talk to about gymnastics anytime. He was a true friend to all and one of the most dedicated people I have ever known in the sport. A true coach with that being his main goal. After 34 years leading in this field he showed us all the right way to enjoy to the end. I'll miss the occasional talks Al and only wish I had gotten in a few more before now. Everyone should take this opportunity to call an old friend and say "hello". You'll know not when that opportunity may pass you by. Amber - thanks for all you're doing to connect us all.
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