What tragic news! Al was a worthy contributor to the RFf - always good for a laugh, but also for a wealth of information.
Our heartfelt condoleances goes out to his family and friends. He will be missed.
I also suspect that Al has already organized a small group around him - ashtray close by and a drink in hand - and is entertaining everybody in his inimitable way.
Al, Rest in Peace - though not too much of the latter as it would not be you!
Tom and Tuulikki Abrahamsson.