Welcome to the memorial page for
Alfred H. Zoller
March 28, 1931 ~ October 2, 2017 (age 86) 86 Years Old Light a Candle
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Message from Alan Richmond
January 26, 2021 3:08 PM
I was never late to Any of Albert's classes, but I am late to celebrate his life, only discovering of his passing when a holiday card came back and an email went unanswered this week (1/21/21).
To a ninth grader, Mr. Zoller was a man who commanded respect immediately. His 6'+ frame was the home of a booming voice. The fact is, however, that he was a kind and effective educator. We had weekly hands-on labs in addition to our daily classes. He encouraged those of us who were "quicker to the mark" to assist in bringing those having issues along. So we were learning general science concepts, scientific methodology and collegiality. That covers a lot of ground.; the essence of education.
It is sixty years since I met him and he became my teacher. I have never forgotten him, his technique and humanity.
I feel I must share the sort of things he taught us. and how he did it. The lab was designed to place a drop or two of pond water on a microscope slide and observe the microbial life therein. I doubt if any teacher teaching today would do what he did. next We needed pipettes to get our pond water., but he did not hand them out. Instead, we ell had to make our own by stretching thin glass tubes over our Bunsen Burner flames. He demonstrated, allowing all of us to gather around him as he worked.
We than all went back to our places. Just at the right moment his booming voice rang out: "Children, children'. Remember that hot glass and cold glass look exactly the same. Be careful and proceed." There were a few yelps as some forgot his warning and were careless., but it was a great experience.
Although I did not end up in the sciences, my time with Albert Zoller stays with me.
To a ninth grader, Mr. Zoller was a man who commanded respect immediately. His 6'+ frame was the home of a booming voice. The fact is, however, that he was a kind and effective educator. We had weekly hands-on labs in addition to our daily classes. He encouraged those of us who were "quicker to the mark" to assist in bringing those having issues along. So we were learning general science concepts, scientific methodology and collegiality. That covers a lot of ground.; the essence of education.
It is sixty years since I met him and he became my teacher. I have never forgotten him, his technique and humanity.
I feel I must share the sort of things he taught us. and how he did it. The lab was designed to place a drop or two of pond water on a microscope slide and observe the microbial life therein. I doubt if any teacher teaching today would do what he did. next We needed pipettes to get our pond water., but he did not hand them out. Instead, we ell had to make our own by stretching thin glass tubes over our Bunsen Burner flames. He demonstrated, allowing all of us to gather around him as he worked.
We than all went back to our places. Just at the right moment his booming voice rang out: "Children, children'. Remember that hot glass and cold glass look exactly the same. Be careful and proceed." There were a few yelps as some forgot his warning and were careless., but it was a great experience.
Although I did not end up in the sciences, my time with Albert Zoller stays with me.
Message from Wayne Winterton
August 2, 2020 3:55 AM
So very sorry to learn of Alfred's passing. We met early in our careers when we were asked to participate in the evaluation of a school science program (SCIS) out of the University of California (Berkeley) and struck up a lasting friendship at that time. My most sincere condolences to Gertrude Gelo and others of the family. Bless you all. - Wayne Winterton
Message from Mark Ray
December 13, 2017 10:40 PM
Gert, I just heard this morning, I am sickened that I did not know of Al's passing. My deepest sympathies to you. Al was truly a great man. I will always remember with great fondness our many journeys into the city, the innumerable plays and ballets we attended. I will miss our conversations that we engaged in over morning coffee. I feel blessed that I was privileged to share the last 45 years with Al as a dear friend.
Message from Bob rorke
October 18, 2017 12:27 PM
My mom, Eleanor Rorke, enjoyed working with him. She admired and respected him very much. I so wish I could call her and ask for her favorite memories of him. Wishing you peace and fond memories as you grieve, heal, and celebrate his life.
Message from Ali
October 6, 2017 11:34 AM
To the kind, gentle man who was a 17 year friend. I will miss our weekly visits, lengthy political talks, martinis at dusk, endless art talks and so much more. A great scholar…a passionate lover of the arts…one who could light up even the dimmest moment with his wit. You will be missed by many, forgotten by none. Rest in Peace dear Al…until we meet again. Cheers! Ali
Message from Connie Antonetti
October 6, 2017 5:45 AM
Al was a true gentleman and scholar. He brought out the best in all of us. His sense of humor was amazing and his Christmas cards were works of art with a spotlight on the news of the year that had passed. When you were in his presence you felt his warmth, understanding and gentle manner. Heaven has gained one of the best and we have lost a magnificent man who will never be forgotten........ever. Rest in peace Al. It was an honor to know you and I am a better person because of it. I hope you are feeling all of the love.
A candle was lit by Diane Record
on October 4, 2017 8:20 PM
Message from Diane record
October 4, 2017 8:18 PM
Loved you fellow board member. You'll be up there laughing with the Angels. Your dedication to the Arts Council was phenomenal . Hope the Santeporn memorial continues. Now we need one in your name. Bye, bye to an amazing person.
A candle was lit by Van and Diane Record
on October 4, 2017 8:12 PM
Message from Vinnie & Laurie Jo Failla
October 4, 2017 8:10 PM
We will miss you so much. We will miss the most interesting conversations, the most heartfelt laughs and some of your delicious meals. You have inspired us in so many ways. I personally will miss your greeting of "hello love" as soon as you saw me. When viewing a fine work of art, we will think of you. Though you may not be standing in front of us anymore, you will be with us always in our hearts. You will be missed dear uncle Al. xoxo
Message from Mike and Ellie Walsh
October 5, 2017 10:10 PM
A great man has left us. Al was a giant of a man in many ways-intelligent, urbane, witty. There are not enough nice adjectives in the English language to describe him. When all is said and done, it is the time we give to each other that really counts in life. Al was a prime giver of time-to his family, friends and to the larger Smithtown community. It was a distinct pleasure and honor for us to have known Al. . May he rest in peace. Our deepest sympathy to Gert, Vinny, and Laurie Jo..
Message from Grace Pergolizzi
October 4, 2017 11:01 AM
Al,the ultimate Renaissance gentelman. You contributed so very much to the community via the Smitown Arts Council.and the Smithtown school district. You will be sorly missed my friend and Wed breakfast partner. Grace Pergolizzi
A candle was lit by GRACE Pergolizzi
on October 4, 2017 10:53 AM
Message from francis r avitabile
October 4, 2017 6:40 AM
My deepest condolence to my aunt Gertrude who loss her brother Alfred. He was a terrific man and a dedicated teacher to all of his students in Smithtown school district, which he taught for many years. God bless you uncle Al you will be missed.
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