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Alexander Lob Obituary

LOB, Alexander C. Of Waltham and Newton, October 20, 2009 of diabetes. Owner of Alex's RC Hobby Shop, Belmont. Former drummer with O+. Former car mechanic. Wonderful son of Walter and Nancy Lob, sisters Antonia and Susannah, brother Jonathan & family. Service at Eliot Church of Newton, Nov. 21 at 3 PM. www.lawlerfuneralhome.com Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home 617-323-5600

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Published by Boston Globe on Nov. 3, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Alexander Lob

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Emiliano Aloi

October 28, 2024

My dear friend, it's so good to remember you and your kind and calm being, and so sad to have missed so many more things that we would have shared. My love and prayers to you and your family. Fly high!

Joanie Siegel

November 4, 2022

Hey Alex you came to me in a dream last night. It was nice to see you and I am sad it wasn´t real. Thanks for the visit though!

Susannah Lob

September 5, 2012

Happy Birthday, Al!
Loving you, wish I could send up a combo r/c motor glider with cymbals for wings...
Your loving sister,

susannah

Neighbor

December 29, 2011

I worked next door to Alex the entire time his shop was open on Belmont Street..We said hello every day and both went on with our day...we would joke that the shaving of his head signaled the beginning of summer..I still work there and sometimes I will look over and expect to see him out in front smoking a cigarette and drinking an extra large dunkin donuts coffee... or see the familiar "back in 10 minutes sign" on the door.
Although we were only friends in passing, it's still hard to believe he is gone..Rest in Peace

Emiliano Aloi

September 5, 2011

Happy birthday dear friend! I hope you're snap rolling in an Extra 330 while playing your drums in the cockpit!
My love to you, your family, and the many, many people that you blessed with your unforgettable friendship!

Jim Soque

July 21, 2010

I helped Alex organize his first hobby shop on Arsenal Street, back in 1989. We've enjoyed flying, skiing, fishing, and lots of laughter together. I think I had a tendancy to over feed him, as he never left the shop to take a break. I loved visiting the Belmont store, as I am in New York now, but, we often would get caught up in our lives, amongst his many loving customers. Do you know that he loved Dunkin' Doughnuts Coffee of all the coffee types that are out there? I found this link from FB, and I am truely, truely saddened by this news of the passing of my friend Alex. It makes these words hard to compose. I will always remember his humor, his smile, and how he would always end our conversations with 'Brotha',... See Ya Tomorrow!" from Jim Soque, President, The Long Island Air Radio Society, Holbrook, New York

Shelley McGraw

June 24, 2010

Thank you Emiliano for that memory. I do remember now, that mashing the potatoes was Alex's job for Thanksgiving. I also remember the Lob family and Alex taking me under their wings for Thanksgiving and other holidays as well as the O Positive gang as a "foreigner" from Buffalo, NY. Mrs. Lob even gave me a key to keep for the 10 years I lived there, in case I ever came into a hard time where I had no place to live so that I could come back "home". It is hard to believe that it is almost a year since his passing. I look at his picture daily, say hello, and wish him well, wherever he may be flying...and you know he is!! Still always in my heart, Alex. May you rest in peace and know that we love you and miss you.
Shelley

Emiliano Aloi

June 23, 2010

I did forget something unique about Alex in my last message. When I first arrived in Boston as a foreign student, I walked into Alex's store. I took up flying again with Alex, and he introduced me to helicopters. After only 3 or 4 weeks of knowing him, he asked me what I was going to do for Thanksgiving. I didn't know what Thanksgiving even meant, and Alex ever so kindly took me in with all of his family to spend my first ever American Thanksgiving. I remember helping him mash the potatoes, which was his usual task for Thanksgiving. Years past, and now married to an American, Thanksgiving feels like my holiday too, but I'll always remember my first one in Newton.
Thanks buddy for imprinting yourself in my heart forever.
May you forever rest in peace surrounded by chocolate cakes, glazed doughnuts, and anything that flies!

-Emi-

Lisa Pettipaw

June 14, 2010

I just want to send a thank you to Bill OConnell. 

Your note brought a big smile to my face. Not only do I remember how much I enjoyed my one "test flight" with you but also just how much of a thrill they all were for Alex. And I'm not just talking about the flights: He was delighted by the drive to the airport (seriously, I can't count how many times we drove to some little airport just to sit and watch planes take off and land!)... walking around the hangar... following the checklist... every last little detail -- he truly loved it all.
 
So, thanks for the flights and bringing back some really great memories.
 
Best wishes,
-Lisa-

Bill OConnell

June 13, 2010

I dropped by the RC field today and was saddened to hear of Alex's passing. We shared the love of aviation and I was lucky enough to have him fly with me in many types of aircraft up and down the East Coast. I'll miss you Alex.

Rob Catalano

January 28, 2010

Was very saddened to learn the news of Alex's passing. Over 10 years ago I walked into his shop and rekindled my love of model building and flying. Alex was always there for help and encouragement—the kind of old-fashioned assistance that's very rare nowadays. It was fun just to hang out in his store, with other RC enthusiasts - just sharing stories. He made it fun to be a kid again. He will be greatly missed. My sympathies to his family.

Ted

December 31, 2009

I just found this news out. I did not know Alex personally. What I did know was his music. His music brought such joy to many college kids (like myself) back in the 80's and 90's. I am so sorry to hear of his passing, and he is in my prayers today.

Tim Moore

December 12, 2009

I only knew Alex from his store- I bought an rc helicopter from him and learned to fly it using his advice.("You have to ride the throttle") I spent a bit of money there for replacement helicopter blades.I also enjoyed using the flight simulator that he was good enough to have set up for people to use. One time there was a diagram sketched on some paper on the counter. I asked him if it was the control system for ailerons on a model plane- he looked at it for a second and said no, it was the brake system for a chevy. I will miss seeing him behind the counter, and will miss his store. Tim Moore

Jon Walsh

December 10, 2009

I was truly saddened to learn of Alex’s death. When I first met Alex, he was a mechanic, along with Dave Martin, at the Newton Center Gulf. He rode a cool motorcycle and had a big smile. I was lucky enough that he was also the drummer in our band. We practiced in his basement, and then put on “shows” there too. Our group of friends really enjoyed and looked up to Alex. His blend of confidence, friendliness and intelligence was compelling. He had huge brains and obvious brawn to go with it. We played some crazy parties around New England and nobody ever messed with the band! Later on, we proudly followed his career in O+.

He turned me on to sailing on his skiff up in Rockport. He also got me interested in gliders, both RC and full scale. While it has been years since I have spoken to Alex, what I remember most about him is his smile and sense of humor. Our little group of friends- Dave Sachs, Alex Sullivan, Elissa Rogovin, Alan O’Neil- we all laughed long and hard with Alex so many, many times. Alex sold me an RC glider in 1994 that, still unfinished, hangs in my apartment. One of the last times I saw Alex was at an RC field out on Route 2. Another flyer’s engine had quit. As he maneuvered his plane in for a landing he shouted for Alex’s attention, proud to show his skills to the master.

Elissa Rogovin

December 9, 2009

I was so sorry to hear just yesterday of Al's passing. We were friends from years ago, back in the heyday of O+ and nights when my boyfriend at the time, Jon Walsh, David Sachs and the rest of the gang jammed in the basement at Al's in Newton. Al was a sweetheart, a great drummer, and so much fun to be with! One chilly Christmas night in the 80's as the band jammed and I played my usual role as groupie shivering in the basement, I borrowed a flannel shirt that Al had gotten for Christmas. That shirt is hanging at my mom's home in New York to this day and I wear it around the house with my sweats when I visit in the winter. I bet that would make Al laugh. My condolences to his friends and family. He was the quintessential "good guy."

Julie Miller

November 26, 2009

Wow-what sad news. Alex was my first love. We sadly didn't stay friends. It's obvious he was a wonderful man in adulthood and touched many lives. One of my favorite memories is during the blizzard of 78 hanging out with him and Jon, playing music, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and weather, until my dad came to get me (on cross country skis!) and made me leave to come home. My condolences to family and friends.

Lisa Pettipaw

November 23, 2009

I met Alex as a little girl (I remember the house but not the people). Re-met him as my boss’s car mechanic (“Your gonna marry that guy!” I didn’t believe her). Fell hard watching him drum at a gig a year later (tank top… muscles… nuf said!). Fell in love around 3am at the New York Diner. Fell in love with the rest of his family not long after.

We started our honeymoon in the ER in Portland (hernia surgery and seatbelts don’t mix). Finished in Rockport with a fine demonstration by Walter on exactly what would have happened if that wing had fallen off during our glider flight over Bar Harbor.

So many memories popping up each day; some a little fuzzy and many so intense it’s overwhelming. We had an amazing 10 years together. Divorce didn’t stop the loving, the caring, the worrying.

I miss you Alex. And the rest of my old family too. I hope our hearts start healing soon.

Love always,
~L~

Matthew Forsyth

November 20, 2009

Alex and I were friends. Not close friends but friends. I knew him a long time, probably 40 years. My Neighborhood was Read Court which was up the hill from Marshall Street. I'd cut through his back yard towards Gibbs Street as a short cut to school. That's when I met him. He was older and bigger and worked on go-carts. Through coincidence my dad got remarried in his backyard a few years later to a friend of his parents. In High School he was tolerant to an akward kid (me) who just wanted to hang out. It was a blast to hear him on drums, Jon on bass and Kenny Halladay on guitar or who ever was around and able to play. I remember riding around in his Charger and going down the cape with him once on the back of a 2-stroke Kawasaki. He sold me my first car-a '72 Olds. After High School I'd check out O+ every once in a while but we saw less and less of each other. It's been some time since I've seen him but some of the things I can say about Alex are this. He was cool to be around. At a time when I didn't feel like the coolest person around he made me feel cool. That's a fantastic trait and I bet he made alot of the people around him feel better about themselves. My thoughts are with him, his family and friends.
Matt- up the hill, around the corner

Yvonne

November 18, 2009

Alex is a gentle gaint whose arms can lift a big Model A, the steady hands can manipulate the R/C's micro engines.I always find comfort and encouragements from Alex. He is my best friend,the love of my life.

Eliot Shanabrook

November 18, 2009

I’d like to share how Alex’s RC became a favorite destination for my son and me. My 11-year-old son was interested in a RC car so we took him once a week after school to Alex’s shop so that he could ask questions to help decide which one to ask for his birthday. Alex was very patient and answered all his questions. After we bought the car for his birthday we made many trips over the last year to ask questions and buy parts for the car. The fun we had visiting Alex’s shop encouraged me to buy a new radio so that I can again fly the RC models I haven’t flown for many years. I remember what he said as we left that day with our new RC gear, “welcome back to the hobby”. In this day and age of the big box store, there are sadly few experiences like this we’ll miss visiting Alex very much. Our condolences to his family and friends.

packing up the aircraft summer 09

November 18, 2009

John Whittaker

November 18, 2009

To paraphrase Jim Lovel's mom in Apollo 13, "If they could get a washing machine to fly, Alex could land it". When I was little, "Zander" would get yelled at by my mom when we lit off explosives. And he'd always take the heat. I remember fishing for pollock off the rocks and frying up those oily, smelly fish and stinking up aunt Ruth's house. He was first rate at ANYTHING he did, from drumming to repairing cars, to go carts. And he was so great and patient to the kids when we visited his shop. I can't even think of him being gone.

All of our Love to Suzy, Nancy, Walter, Tonia, Jonathan, Lauren, Jason & Joyce

-JB, Anne, Daria & Alex

Martha Sweet

November 18, 2009

Alex was always so much fun! I remember snow skiing with him...we would wear long johns and jeans...who needed Ski Pants?? I remember hanging around Walter and Nancy's place in Rockport...swimming off the rocks.
We always had such fun. From his long muscley arms to his deep laugh I will miss Alex...and always hold him fondly in my heart!

Shelley McGraw

November 17, 2009

Alex, my eternal soul mate...Love never ends.

Alex with the Dunkin Donuts at Walden Pond

November 17, 2009

Alex, on tour with O +

November 17, 2009

Alex relaxing during his drumming years.

November 17, 2009

Bruce McDonald

November 17, 2009

Just heard the sad news. When I met Alex he was the uniquely talented drummer & founding member of my soon to be favorite band, O Positive. Even though I hadn't seen Alex in more than a decade, my wife & I were talking about him only last week. He was that memorable a person. Godspeed Alex.

My deepest sympathy to his family & friends.

Joanie Siegel

November 17, 2009

I have so many memories of Alex, including being in your living room, his "garage" in your garage, flying with him, and talking with him. He had a great smile and a warm heart he sometimes hid beneath a gruff exterior. I remember when he was diagnosed with diabetes and how the doctor was so pleased with Alex's ability to handle his treatment.

I am so sorry for the loss of your son and your brother.

Martha

November 16, 2009

Oh, all of you - I was so sad to hear about this. I wish I had more recent memories of Alex! (mine come from probably around 1971 or 2, when I remember him and Sue at the kitchen table....Sue begged, "Mom, make him STOP!" "What's he doing?" "He's LOOKING AT ME!")

Please take care of yourselves at this time, and don't get worn out trying to Deal With Everything. Some things can Wait.

I will see you soon.

Love,

November 16, 2009

November 16, 2009

November 16, 2009

Dear Nancy and Walter,

I am so terribly sorry to hear of the loss of your son Alex. My thoughts are with you.

Roland

Jon Leehey

November 15, 2009

Alex was a good friend and a great member of the RC community. He was always willing to help and give advice, whether in his store or at the field. I was shocked and so saddened by his passing. Fly high, Alex.

A younger Alex, at his shop.

November 15, 2009

Reggie

November 14, 2009

I am heart broken at your loss. Alex was a mentor and a good friend to many. Thanks for everything you did for me...

Alex at the flying field

November 14, 2009

Alex, hard at work!

November 14, 2009

Alex at his shop, photo taken by Mike C.

November 14, 2009

Alex at his shop, taken by Mike C.

Steve Vaglica

November 14, 2009

Richard Hilaire

November 14, 2009

My shop away from home, was Alex's. What a friendly even keeled man. So sorry to hear the battle was lost. Blue side up!
May God bless you in His peace.

November 14, 2009

Rest in Eternal Peace Alex

Jeff Silverman

November 13, 2009

Alex is my oldest friend - my first friend - I have a ton of warm memories of Alex and his entire family. I am so sorry to hear of Alex's passing. Condolences and love from a member of the old neighborhood. Jeff Silverman formerly of Newton, MA now of McLean, VA

Steve Vaglica

November 13, 2009

Alex's shop was always worth visiting for me, even at times when I didn''t need that much, just to briefly chat with someone who really loved the RC aircraft hobby, Alex!

Judy Oshansky

November 9, 2009

Alex will always be in my heart and my memories. He always had the warmest smile on his face. An incredible talent, and a huge heart. I was so sad to hear he lost his fight with diabetes. I hope they find a cure for it. He will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered. My heart goes out to all of you.

Erika Phillips

November 8, 2009

I heard good stories about Alex, but we never met. What I discover about him now, from many people, fills Alex out as precise & funny, deep into his interests & a solid friend, his own man & an example for others, grounded & flying. He enjoyed himself. Alex fits perfectly within his family. So now I see him too. Alex, the pleasure's mine.

Tyrone Lawson

November 3, 2009

Alex always had the slowest car but he was tough to beat in a race. He would show up early and build the track. The track would be so technical with so many turns and a short straight. He would force you to become a better driver or crash.

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