Sad News

[hunduc]

Just learned from a friend that the long-time owner of Williamsville Ducati in Holland, NY, Al Gillen, passed away today.

RIP Al.

[DexterMorgan]

Sorry to hear that.  R.I.P

[Howie]

Sad indeed.  RIP Al

[DesmoDiva]

 :'(

Cancer, you are one sorry SOB.

B and I will always remember the good times.


B and I with Al at our wedding in Aug 2008

[DesmoDiva]

From Al's son, posted on ADVrider:

I am Al Gillen's son. He was the owner and proprietor of Williamsville Competition in Holland NY, which sold and serviced Ducatis, KTMs, Husqvarnas and others. I know that many of you on this forum knew him.

I am saddened to report that Al passed away this morning after a year's-long fight with cancer. Thankfully, he passed away at home, in his sleep, with his family near him. Funeral services will be held next week in Western New York area. We will post details in the Buffalo News at http://www.buffalonews.com/city-region/obituaries

Thanks for all your best wishes. Even though I am his son, I can tell you he loved his customers and fellow gearheads as if they were family.

-KG

[DesmoDiva]

From the WNYRacing page:

1/31/14

Al Gillen owner of Williamsville Competition in Holland, NY passed away this morning after a lengthy illness. A staple in the east coast MX and woods scene, Al has been in business since 1974 supporting and selling motorcycles to literally thousands of enthusiasts and racers.

Recently Mike Robinson had the opportunity to meet with Al and inform him that he was being inducted to the WNY Hall of Fame, Al was very appreciative and shared some great stories.

We will remember Al and hear his stories as part of the 2014 Hall of Fame induction on February 8th at WNYRacing's annual banquet.

God Speed Al, you've touched more people than you will ever know.

[jsd2]

Al was such a character and I always enjoyed my conversations with him in the shop.   I bought my Monster EVO from him and he worked hard tracking one down for me. Al was good at convincing me I needed things that I didn't know I needed.  He will be greatly missed.   RIP Al.

[CDChase1981]

Al gave me an incredible deal on my 696.

I'm sorry to hear about his passing.

RIP