Dec. 9, 2015 By Christian Murray
Long-time community leader Al Volpe passed away today. He was 90.
Volpe, who lived in Woodside, was a long-time member of Community Board 2 and a former board member of the neighborhood group Woodside on the Move.
He was active in transportation matters; earlier this year a traffic light was installed on Skillman Avenue and 51st Street after his lobbying.
“Al Volpe was a force to be reckoned with when he took on an issue he was passionate about,” said Patrick O’Brien, chairman of Community Board 2, this evening.
“He was like the Energizer Bunny, running around and advocating even when he had health issues,” O’Brien said. “He embodied the Jesuit motto: ‘Man for others.’”
Volpe, who is survived by his wife Cay, wrote many letters to the editor at various Queens newspapers expressing his opinions.
In recent times those letters have dealt with bicyclists. He held the opinion that bicyclists failed to comply with the rules of the road and were a danger to both motorists and pedestrians. He would attend the monthly 108 Police Precinct meetings and tell the commanding officer to clamp down on wayward riders.
O’Brien said that Volpe would lobby elected officials and government agencies and would never take no for an answer.
“He educated people that they should express their voice and fight for what they believe in.”
Al Volpe (brown coat) at Woodside on the Move Christmas Tree Lighting Photo source: Jimmy Van Bramer 2012
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18 Comments
People, stop making a big deal over this guy. In another week everyone will forget him and you’ll move on to the next great Sunnyside citizen. Pat Dorfman anyone? She’s my favorite Sunnyside activist. Although I’m becoming a huge Ethel fan.
Correction to the story: Up until the time of his death Al Volpe was an active board member and vice president of Woodside on the Move, the local nonprofit organization.
He will be deeply missed.
Thank you Mr. Volpe for the gift of your knowledge,
Why would people put negative comments or thumbs down on respectful comments ????
Because like sixbot they’re douche bags.
What on earth is Cathy Somerville talking about? Forget naming 51st and Skillman for Al lets make him a Saint. Are there any streets in Sunnyside left unnamed? How about 44th and QB named El loco Way?
Should now honor Al Volpe by renaming 51st and Skillman” Al Volpe Way “..
I am honored to call Al Volpe a friend! He has been in my life since 1974 I am blessed in knowing him. His Jesuit training served him well and it made me look up to him and admire him for his devotion to Veritas! He possessed the knowledge of right and wrong without question. He was the only man who I knew who would be able to pull out Excaliber! I will miss you, my friend and feel your loss, always. It was an honor to know you. oxoxoxo
So sad you will be missed,You did so much for our community.
RIP!
This is very sad news. Rest well, soldier. Your job is well done.
now if only JVB would listen to this man on bikes !!!
Irish Lassy – What does Jimmy have to do with bikes??? Cops do enforcement.
RIP Volpe. The fight for more parking continues.
Are you any relation to Lassy the dog? Ruff.
Who cares?
Death comes for each of us. It might serve you to think of who will care when you are gone.
What a douche.
Your lack of respect for the dead is very revealing. Yeah, who will care when you are gone?
RIP Al Volpe .. You made a difference …
Rest in peace this is sad news