ALDINI

Aldini was my best friend in magic. He passed on to me his genuine love of magic and his unquenchable enthusiasm for creating and learning about magic.  Through Al, I learned a process for developing new magical ideas, effects and methods.

I spent many, many hours around Al's kitchen table working on new ideas; any idea was worth considering no matter how seemingly ridiculous.

During a 'session', Al, a veritable encyclopedia of magic, would rush into his garage, which was full of magic, not cars, and bring out something germane to our conversation or something he wanted to talk about.  Those were wonderful, productive days.  I miss them and most of all, I miss Al. Al's wonderful wife Roz was always there encouraging and joking—it was great.

What follows is the obituary from the International Brotherhood of Magicians November 1989 Linking Ring Magazine.

It was written by Tommy Garbin, a good friend of Aldini's and my friend as well.

Aldini, a/k/a Alex Weiner, of 11712 Fredrick Dr., Garden Grove, CA died August 11 [1989] at age 72. He carried I.B.M. No. 8869 continuously since 1953 and was a member of the Order of Merlin and Rings 138 (Santa Monica) and 21 (Hollywood). He had served as Vice President of the latter. He had formerly served as secretary of the Wizards Club of Chicago; president and secretary of the Orange County Mystics; and as an I.B.M. Territorial Vice President.

Aldini became interested in magic as a boy. As a club member, he was hard-working, loyal, and conscientious. His home became a meeting place for magicians. A devoted family man, his family fully supported his magical activities.

His flair for comedy and his keen sense of humor were evident in all his performances. An expert in manipulations, his expertise and assistance were generously given to all who asked. Some of today's movie and rock stars were among his students, and he derived much pleasure and satisfaction in teaching young people.

As an inventor, he will be remembered for many magical items including card effects and roughing fluid. He received many awards for his original magical ideas. A dealer in magic, he owned and operated his own shop and operated magic shops at Disneyland for many Years.

Aldini was also a contributor to many magic magazines, his most recent being a column in The Tops Magazine.

During World War II, he traveled throughout Asia with the late movie star, Melvyn Douglas, presenting magic in shows for U.S. troops. He became an international performer, highly regarded and respected by his peers. He and his genius will be missed by all.

Survivors include his widow, Roslyn, a son, Bruce, a daughter, Lynn, and one granddaughter, Andrea.

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