Alvin Kotler

Today I learned of Alvins death when my husband, Jim, tried to call him to tell him of my mothers passing on February 21. Alvin and my parents, the late Beverly and Stanley Weiner, were friends for decades. My Dad and Alvin were like brothers, starting on Upham Street in Malden when they were just 3 years old. Their friendship was inspirational, and we kept in touch after Dad died almost 6 years ago. We were all so proud when his book was published, and so excited when he told us it might be made into a movie. Alvin was like an uncle to us; it was almost like having Dad still with us. We are sad but hopeful that the two best buddies are trading war stories again. We send our love to Selma.
June Weiner Wulff
Jim Weiner Wulff

I never met Al as he was a friend of my husband John's. He and John would share war stories. But over many years, Al and I would talk on the phone, and he would tell me stories of his grandson, Aaron and granddaughter, Naomi. He was so proud of them and their accomplishments. I would look forward so to our chats. John spoke to Al shortly before the 8 of December when he called to let him know we would be in Mass on the 13th. John has been calling ever since trying to reach Al. We are so saddened by his loss. He was a special person and he will be sorely missed.

I spoke with Alvin regularly through his High School friend, fellow WWII Warrior, my Father in-law, Melvin Gilman. Last time we spoke, I suggested that Tom Hanks should portray Alvin in the movie version of his book, We Came To Fight A War. Alvin loved the idea and said how perfect Tom Hanks would be for the part, we both agreed. Barry Weinstein

I just spoke to Alvin on December 6th and put my Dad, Melvin Gilman on the phone to speak with Alvin... (two Dear Friends who go back to Malden High School, along with the late Ruth Gilman, my Mom). I have known Alvin since I was a little girl and have stayed in touch with him regularly ( speaking to him every week or every other week for 10 yrs). I put my Dad on to speak with him whenever he was able and on December 6th they had a wonderful conversation and as Al would say, it made him smile ear to ear!!
Al looked out for my Mom, at my Dad's request
When my Dad went to serve in The Pacific.
There is a Huge History and of course Alvin was at my parent's wedding,
I was ordering another copy of his book, when I
was shocked and so saddened to see his obituary!!!!!
I will miss speaking to Alvin so very much.
He was Loved by my Mom and Dad and my husband Barry ( who also spoke with him regularly) and me.
He was a SPECIAL and a DEAR FRIEND to our Family and was such a GREAT support to me, with all I was going through with my Dad's ill health.
He was so very proud of his Grandchildren and I will miss his stories and Friendship and hope his wonderful book and his message continues for all to see...
Love you Al,
Linda (Gilman) Weinstein

We truly enjoyed spending time with Al during the Quigley family gatherings. He was such a wonderful and kind man. He will be missed and we are forever grateful for his service to our country. Love, The Quigley Family

My condolences on the loss of such a wonderful man! I always looked forward to his visits to our practice. He had many wonderful stories. I especially enjoyed his book, "We came to fight a war". His smile and positive energy were contagious. We have lost another shining light from the greatest generation. Mr. Kotler will be missed dearly.

AL Kotler was a wonderful man and patriot. A power of example.
I am happy that he had a blessed life with Selma. I will miss him very much.
His memory is great blessing !