AL TAFFET Obituary

Al Taffet Cinematographer and Camera Operator passed away on August 22, 2010 of natural causes in San Rafael, California. He was 92. Taffet worked on many classic films with legendary directors and actors. His film credits include the Academy Award winning films "Long Day's Journey Into Night", "Summer Wishes Winter Dreams" and "I Never Sang For My Father". Taffet was also a talented athlete and before going into the movie business he played baseball for the Red Sox and other teams. He had a long, full and happy life. He will be remembered with love by his wife Ruth, daughter Jill, daughter-in-law Janine and his grandchildren Roxy and Tyler. All that knew him will miss the twinkle in his eye and the great stories he told about his experiences working in the movies.

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Published by Marin Independent Journal on Oct. 2, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for AL TAFFET

6 Entries

Janine Gevas

October 6, 2010

As Al's daughter-in law, I had the great honor and pleasure of sharing some amazing times with him for over 30 years. We had the same birthday and celebrated many milestones together. We had the same gift for telling stories but his were sooo much better. His whole personality was so positive, it was a pleasure to visit. He was always actively engaged in the present even though he had incredible life and career experiences in his past. He always had a project to talk to about, always knew the cool drink to try or what new movie was coming out. Most importantly the thing we shared was a love for Jill. Their relationship was very inspiring to me. I hope to be that kind of parent to my kids. One who both inspires and encourages, who is both a role model and a friend and no matter what, is there for you and cheering you on.
He was Papa to Roxy and Tyler and a very special part of our family who is always in our hearts. We miss him dearly.

Mary Taffet

October 4, 2010

I just this evening heard about Al's passing -- via his imdb entry that my husband had chosen to look at. Ruth, I'm so sorry to hear about his passing. Please accept our condolences. I've never had the pleasure of meeting Jill, Janine or the grandchildren, but I send you all our condolences as well. And I guess I never really had the privilege of meeting Al or Ruth in person either -- only electronically, mostly via e-mails sent back and forth with Ruth. But through those e-mails, I did and do feel a connection.

I'm so glad that my father-in-law Joe Taffet was able to reconnect with his first cousin Al by phone within the last year.

That's a wonderful picture! I've only seen one other picture of Al that I know of. Thanks so much for sharing this photo of a much younger Al.

-- Mary Dresser Taffet

Susan Charlip

October 4, 2010

Though I never had the pleasure of meeting your father, I do remember when I first met you in the late 70's how much you admired him and his work; how much of an influence he was in your thinking and your own ambition. I think he really believed in you and your own considerable talents from very early on, which I am sure contributed to your accomplishments and willingness to take risks. So sorry you lost him.

Steve K

October 2, 2010

Should've been on the other side of the camera with those looks. I envy him for having worked on some really fine films.

Mitch Allen

October 2, 2010

I only met Al a few times but each time my mouth was agape listening to his stories of working with Hollywood Royalty. I'm sure Jill, Janine & Ruth had all heard the stories a million times but I was an enraptured audience. By the time I met him his body had started fading but his mind was sharp as a tack. Looking at the picture on this guest book I see that Al could just as easily have been one of the movie stars he filmed so well. I am proud to be an adjunct to the family of such a wonderful man. I hope the wonderful memories give comfort to Jill and Ruth and the whole family.

Jill Taffet

October 2, 2010

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

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