Albert Youakim

It doesn't matter that I may be the only person who knows of this posting.
Me and of course our Father God. Someone sent me or my mother an article from 2005 in the Record newspaper about "Uncle Al". I remember calling him uncle even with little contact as our backyard neighbor in Hillsdale, NJ. His personality made him feel like family. In the 1960's he would occasionally come over to say hello and shoot the breeze with my dad, often while dad and I were playing catch with a baseball. I...

i was one of the 'hundreds of athletes' that Al coached. i was involved in track and field and went to Stoke Mandeville with AL back in the 60's and 70's. Although i try to keep in shape, I am no longer involved in wheelchair sports. I rmember Al as warm, loving and supportive and willing to give of himself. i send my sympathy for your loss, and know we will aall carry Al's spirit with us. He may be in a different form, but he is not gone, his spirit is still strong. Best wishes and love to you

Of all the people I've met, within wheelchair sports and beyond, Al was one of the kindest, positive and most supportive individuals I've ever known. Words can't even begin to capture what he meant to so many. I will miss this great and unselfish man.

Dear Al, Rest in peace I will never
Forget You My Frend....

Al was the MAN! I started as a member of the Jr. Elks basketball team Al started for kids. Then graduated to the Wheelers and spent many years there with wonderful Al, a guy who only loved all his "kids" on the Wheelers. We stayed in touch for all the years since then and will miss the love I felt from Al. He nominated me for the "Hall of Fame" which I entered on the first ballot. I am proud of him just as he was proud of me.
God bless you Al.
Marty Ball

Dearly Beloved Al,
You will be greatly missed by all and especially those of us in the disabled arena. You gave so much and ask for so little. You were such a great influence on everyone's life. You are irreplaceable.
Condolences to Billy and all of Al's great family and friends. May the Lord continue to bless you.
Love,
Jennifer and Denton

I was 19 and at my first regional meet. It was mostly a blur except for the people. I met Al for the first time and he was the ultimate father-figure and cheerleader for all of the newbees. I had no idea what his involvement was... how much he had on his plate or even who he was but he welcomed me to my first NWAA event with warmth and never once forgot my name. I hope I made him proud

Connie Head (first team Rochester Wheels 1970)
now living in Paisley, Florida

I competed against Al's teams for 15 years. He was always gracious, but at the same time tough as nails. I will always appreciate his influence on the game of wheelchair basketball and more specifically on my career. He will be dearly missed.