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What to add a note? Email: guestbook@rultd.org February 21, 2008 - Albert, its been a year. It still doesn't feel like your gone. I still come home expecting to hear a "quack, call me, quack." Thats all you would ever say. You and my dad, Graham, were the best of friends since high school, and I still don't know why he loved you so much. haha, but now I know why. After my dad died you always came around calling every Sunday, here comes that quack again, "call me, quack" you helped my mom and my family get out of a deep hole in our heart, and your have been such an angel to our family in so many different kinds of ways. my other dad, thank you for always being there for me, you are deeply missed. Thank you for always being there for me. I love you.
March 14, 2006 - I just wanted to say Nona is right! From the FIRST time I remember meeting Albert as a child I never thought of a duck when I heard a "QUACK"! I always have and always will associate that sound with him!!! Thank You for IMPACTING so many peoples lives.You are so Loved and will be Missed all of the days of our lives!! Terri Dawn Utley (Nona's niece) (Burlington, NC ) utley1994@mebtel.net March 11, 2006 - This guest book is a wonderful tribute to Albert and a comfort to all of us who miss him so. Thank you to 'a friend' who is sponsoring this site for another year. I am grateful. I am also grateful to have known 'Crazy' Albert 'Steve' Stevens for my whole life. Our mothers were friends and he was friends with one of my brothers. I cannot think of Albert without smiling! It just wasn't Christmas unless Albert came by to entertain us with his colorful stories, sharp wit and dry humor, like the time he saw us sitting around the table with paper crowns and he said, "Y'all look like a bunch of dorks!" Oh, and his honesty was appreciated! He had guts and nerve and was to be admired. Even though I live in CA, he was kind enough to put me on his email list so I could have the wonderful vicarious experiences of all the fun NC events he planned including Carolina ballgames and his popular parties. He and I shared political views as well and he kept me informed of lots of current events via email. So, even with his busy schedule he was able to make my day with his frequent emails. Albert was a great man, great person, great citizen, great friend and great FUN! He will be missed by so many of us. And
in his memory, on the eve of the ACC Championships-- ps) In case some of you were like me and could not attend the service for Albert, I have a copy of the euology given by Rob Holcombe (my brother-in-law) and would be happy to email it to you. One of my sons read the copy and said, "He (Albert) was a cool guy but Rob should have told the story about Albert giving a plastic bag to our little cousin and telling him to put it over his head!" We laughed about that and about Rob's son telling me "it just wouldn't be Christmas without Albert coming over and throwing our plasic baby Jesus on the roof." Of course, these are stories which were perhaps inappropriate for the service, but I am smiling again thinking of Albert... Lynn Henson (Chico, CA ) leonheon@comcast.net March 10, 2006 - I first met Albert in home room class 7th grade. We were best friends ever since. The number of things we got into over the years are way too numerous to mention. My daughter and son, and a few of my friends, called Albert " Uncle Albie " My late brother, Randy, called him " Stevie Wonder " Albert visited our family about 2-3 times a year. We will miss his visits for ever. When ever Albert came, we were on holiday. It
was kind of like the floating holiday that they give us at work, Albert, liked to play games. I play golf about 6 times a year, 2-3 of these times with Albert. Albert
always played for some kind of money. I quit asking him before we played what
the bet was. You
get 7 strokes on the front nine, and 6 on the back. Albert liked to play games, did you know: Albert
and I once walked into a pool hall here in Orlando at 3:00PM Every
time Albert came to my house, we played from 8pm til 2am. I often questioned the point of this ritual, and he would get mad at me. Back
in the 80's, Albert and I used to play SuperNientendo Golf for $20 per hole. Several
years ago, so we would not have to go out anymore, I bought a pool table for
my house. Couple
of months ago, Albert walked into a Brunswick store in Wrightsville Beach, and
bought his first table, it's called the Brunswick Gibson. The first time I played pool, Albert was there. The last time I saw Albert, we were playing pool. He left early the next morning while I slept. Me
and my family, and all of my friends, will forever miss playing games with Albert. March 9, 2006 - We will miss seeing you at MOI for breakfast. You will always be remembered as one of our loving local characters. Mike and Rita Merritt (wrightsville beach, NC ) miridonco@aol.com March 8, 2006 - Hi Albert, I humbly apologize for being in your guest book twice. I am sure you have already caught it and I can hear you saying "Quack" It was a mistake of the fingers. Carolyn, I am very sorry for -God Bless you Carolyn and Albert,I will be more careful next time. We love you! Joyce Summers-Apple (Greensboro, NC ) March 5, 2006 - So many many lives were blessed to have known and loved Albert F.Stevens III or as I first knew him as Stevie Stevens.There are so many humorous,positive, intellectual, adjectives that will live forever in my heart as well as every life he touched.First of foremost, Albert was real, a true friend.I have been friends with Albert for 35+ years.One of my favorite stories was that he asked me out for a date when was 16. I spent my time that afternoon doing what we girls did back then to get ready to be picked up. Albert did show..however he was in his hunting attire and looked like he may have been dancing in the mud most of the day.I looked at him and he smiled that genuine, michevious but infectious look. I just laughed and we proceeded to go by his house for him to clean up. Of course, our date consisted of riding around looking for all our friends.Albert gave us such great memories.From a woman's point of view,Albert and his male friends had a very very special rare bond.He had a special sense about people and he loved them even if he was giving you a hard time. I would say that most of us would worry if Albert did not give you a hard time now and then.That was straight from his heart. Thank you Carolyn and for bringing such a true friend with so much character and conviction into this world. We love you so Albert.Again,You will be in our hearts forever and ever. Joyce Summers-Apple (Greensboro, NC ) March 5, 2006 - Albert would be so pleased and humbled to know how many people were so touched by his life. I still can't believe that he is not with us here, but know that he is with us all in spirit. On a daily basis something reminds me of Albert. He and I skied outside my back door on Sunset Lagoon at 7 am in the springtime, and it is just about that time. I will miss him walking in the front door with the usual "Quack". He will always be my friend. If it is any comfort to all of us, he knew we all loved him. We were all blessed by his friendship, and he cherished us. Thanks for everyone's support. I am amazed by the power behind his legacy! See you all Friday at the Blockade Runner for the ACC tournament. And although it hurts me to say this being a NCSU alumni, GO TARHEELS in memory of Albert. Margaret Collins (Wrightsville Beach, NC ) March
4, 2006 - UNC-G Rugby owes a great deal of gratitude to Albert for all his help
in teaching a bunch of novices the game of rugby. I will always remember him
walking up and down the sideline positioning me and helping me anticipate where
the ball was going. After the games and for years thereafter he always had a
good story. He was also a generous person making sure those around him were
well taken care of. I will miss Albert! March 3, 2006 - I was so blessed to have Albert as a true blue friend for 36 years. He will always be my friend and our angel. Although thinking about Albert with angel wings is hard to picture..I think he probably special ordered duck wings. I don't think anyone was surprised by the turn-out at Albert's Celebration of Life and After Party at the Worth's (To the Worth's -what a wonderful thing to do-thank you!)I think this is appropriate so I wanted to share a story with you. I had a date with Albert when we were 16-17 and he showed up in his dirty hunting boots and camoflouge late after I had spent the afternoon trying to look what we girls did in the late sixties and early seventies. When I went to the door, I could not resist laughing...Only Albert could have that look and charm that you just had to laugh and not be upset with him.Well, needless to say we had a few dates but it worked out like more of a brother-sister -buddy relationship. I was fortunate to know his many close Gentlemen Friends and they had a special bond that I feel is very rare.Albert gave so much of him self and was extremely selfless even though he would want you to believe he was Mr. Tough Stuff. Now, I don't mean he was a push over as he had strong convictions and we all loved and respected Albert for that and to me among the many legacies we have, that will be one at the top. Many times when we were together, he would just ride by Carolyn's (his Mom's) to check that everything was OK. There are not enough words to express our dearest friend Albert that we loved so much as I could go on and on. Albert brings a heart filled legacy to all that loved him and knew him.Thank you Carolyn and our Creator for Albert III Stevens. His legacy will live on with family and friends of all ages.He will live in our hearts, celebrations, and lives forever! Joyce Summers-Apple (Greensboro, NC ) March 1, 2006 - Albert was a terrific human being with a ferocious sense of right and wrong. His smile and laughter were always a bright spot in my day, even when he called me to ski at 6am! Albert and I were scheduled to have dinner on the planned Florida trip a few weeks back, and I will hold a place at the table for him always! Emily Zibelin (West Palm Beach, FL ) emily.zibelin@na.manpower.com I've worked with Albert for the past 7 years and I will miss him for the rest of my life. Always a Gentleman - he rose from his chair when I pulled up and ran out to meet me - opening doors and taking things out of my arms. The #1 rule was to never tell a lie and he made it easy to tell the truth. Whenever I messed something up - my confession was not an excuse for him to call me down but another opportunity to compliment me. Not many people have that in a boss or a friend... Albert left many things behind for me to remember him by - a duck in the freezer, the ski rope set-up in the warehouse for practice, bullets in every drawer, photos from his hunts - and lots of camo - just to name a few! When asked - did Albert have any family - my response... Yes, a mother that he loved very much and MANY brothers and sisters in friends.Thanks for the all the memories. Wendy Curtis (Wilmington, NC ) promos@rultd.org March 1, 2006 - The tragic news of Alberts' passing has left a huge "hole" in my spirit that will never be filled. I met Albert in 1988 and we immediately started a friendship that lasted the past 18 years. We spoke often and though it was not obvious at times, we were very close. Albert would always share his opinion whether I cared to hear it or not. He helped me through some very difficult times and even went as far as taking me into his home for a period of time. In retrospect, his advice was most often what I needed to hear even though I didn't want to hear it. I remember all the golf we played over the years and his crazy bets, and cooking oysters at his ACC party was indeed a "labor of love". Albert...I will miss you "old friend" but your friendship will be a part of me for the remainder of my life. Thanks for the memories. Joseph Musgrove (Wilmington, NC ) March 1, 2006 - I met Albert through Mary and Drew Lacklen many years ago. Drew says it best when he described Albert as a man who traveled within many peer groups. I can't tell you how many stories I would hear from my restaurant customers (from all over)and the name "Albert" would come up...surely they didn't mean that Albert, I'd muse.. but as the story progressed, it became clear that yes, indeed, it was that Albert who was with (insert any name of hundreds here..and I'm not really exaggerating) doing whatever it was that the particular story was about. He truly knew or was known by everyone!! Kevin Bacon and his 6 degrees had nothing on Albert Stevens and it only took being at his memorial service to confirm that. Shawn, my husband, was, among other things, Albert's erstwhile golf buddy. Shawn loved playing with him (the few times he did) and would've done it more if Albert had given him more than a 5 minute heads up to tee time at Magnolia - 20 minutes away! Our "business" meetings with him (RU Ltd did all our print work) were short, sweet and to the point as he a tight schedule... he often would drop in for 5 minutes ...then it was off to Dockside. Albert's number is still first on my cell phone directory (and Shawn's)...I haven't had the heart to remove it yet nor can I delete any of the numerous (and humorous) e-mails we'd trade back and forth...it was like tennis and he usually had the last volly. I think about ways to pay tribute to Albert and a fourth of July (or thereabouts) golf tournament comes to mind.. if anyone who reads this is interested in participating, e-mail me. I would love to see an annual tournament that benefits not only our sore hearts but his favorite charity...ducks(quacks) unlimited. Albert, you are truly one in a million and I'm just grateful to be one of those lucky people that knew you and loved you. I'll think of you every time I see fireworks and imagine that, as usual, you're still in charge and we're mere assistants. Anne Steketee (Wilmington, NC ) info@portlandgrille.com March 1, 2006 - Albert was one of the special people in life that if you were given the chance to know him he made you realize how great life can really be. We all have a chance to make a difference and Albert really did. I'm sure he's in a a better place and will look forward to laughing at us as we enjoy our individual rides and inevitably, hopefully, meet again. Albert, you will dearly be missed and remembered. Your Buddy, Henry Graham (Charlotte, NC ) jhenrygraham@yahoo.com March 1, 2006 - No one could back peddal thru a pack better and how he hit the golf ball with that swing, (ball too far back, club hooded), always amazed me. I used to wear my UNGG shirt at Alumni weekend to tease him, now I will where it to remember him. Albert was my friend and I will miss him. Tim Knox (G'boro) February 28, 2006 - I met Albert years ago in Greensboro at Hooray Harrys and remember him as making a lasting impression from the first time we met. I admired his honesty, even though brutal at times as well as his true passion for life. I've always been drawn to people who realize that the journey is to be enjoyed and Albert definitely understood that fact and also made other's journey a helluva ride as well. I wish I'd had more opportunities to spend more time with him as I've not seen him very often over the past years. It is always sad when such a good person leaves us and Albert is definitely no exception. Here's to you Albert, and here's to your memory, as it will always be a good one. Lets all continue our journeys as Albert would have. Full of love, life and laughter. We'll miss you man. Chuck Hester (Charlotte, NC ) BuildaLittle@aol.com February
28, 2006 - Albie was truly one of my dearest and best friends,and will be missed
forever.He always looked forward to his visits to play golf with me in Blowing
Rock(he thought Grandfather Golf Club was the best course he ever played and
was due to play it again in May,a time when he visited me every year).Ironically,he
and I were planning his latest golf pilgrimage to Pinehurst to stay at my house
March 1st for 3 days of golf and quaccks.Both myself and the other 22 friends
who will be there will raise a glass in a salute to one of the best guys to
ever grace the planet. Mrs Stevens,you have my deepest sympathies. February 28, 2006 - Albert Franklin Stevens, III. Born two weeks later than me and one week before Alan McCoy. A fourth classmate was born exactly between Albert and me, but his name escapes me. When we each turned 18 (the legal beer drinking age in NC, in 1970), the four of us spent successive Saturday nights that our birthdays fell on that year at LUM'S, across Battleground Road from Mr. & Mrs. Q Ball, wishing well each other in the years to come. I took Albert to the airport for his departure for Vietnam. I will forever be glad of his return home from that place. On another occasion, I put him out of my car over a difference we had but he never, ever let that act get in the way of our relationship. In fact, I believe that event helped our friendship grow in strength. For a person somewhat smaller in physical size, he was HUGE in stature. I will miss every part of his being - cursing, feline hunting, honesty, reasoning, respecting and loving. Rest my friend and, wait for me. Frank McNutt (Princeton, NJ ) fmcnutt@princeton.edu February
27, 2006 - From the day I met Albert in 1995, it was a though we had know each
other forever. We shared a special bond that I really cannot explain. I sometimes
wondered if we had not been brother and sister in another life. We were great
playmates. No matter what silly thing I wanted to do or no matter what event
I wanted to go to, Albert was always there for me. My BEST friend. Always the
perfect date and gentleman he catered to my every whim. Don't think I didn't
hear alot of Quacking about it, but he always did his best to make sure I was
happy. Life without him is hard to imagine. I have had many calls and letters
from our friends over the last few weeks. Many thanks for that. Here are some
words from a recent letter written to me from my mother. It has helped me and
I hope it will help everyone else as well. February 27, 2006 - At the bottom of the page it says "Entries are free and are posted after being reviewed for appropriate content.". Well, that part about appropriate content certainly puts a crimp into fully expressing what is was like to know Albert Steven!. His sense of self, and his confidence that you could deal with him on his terms and be happy doing so, were admirable. Thanks for all the good times and great hospitality. That gun room in Wrightsville was one heck of a themed guest room. As for his scorekeeping in golf, someone who played a lot more rounds with him than me said it was pretty much just a 2 down/automatic press rule. Alber won a lot because he knew you could usually "get well" by finishing strong. God bless you Albert. Mike Kiser (Greensboro, NC ) February 27, 2006 - They ( whomever they are ) broke the mold with this CHARACTER. Albert was the most unique person I have ever met ( probably you too!) because he combined an "ESPN in your face" attitude with us and at the same time maintained a tremendous friendship "LOYALTY" unparalleled in today's society. How could someone be so PREDICTABLE on one hand and totally out of the box UNPREDICTABLE on the other? We will remember Albert most for the fact that WE COULD COUNT ON HIM !! Mike Slaughter (Charlotte, NC ) mikeslau@bellsouth.net February 24, 2006 - Albert was (is) exactly what we need more of in our lives -- a person who was (is) endlessly amusing, smart, witty, edgy, kind, irritating, giving and never, ever, boring. If, when our time comes to give up the ghost, we can all say we lived as full and interesting a life and had as many loving friends and family as Albert had (has)-- well, then, what more could we ask? I played golf with Albert this last summer and he kept score. I had no idea how he did it (quantum physics is easier to understand), all I know is that I lost money. And I didn't care. Peace (if that's what you want) to you, Albert, wherever you are. John Dunlap (Concord, NC ) tarheelsjhd@starpower.net February 24, 2006 - I first met Little Stevie in the early 70's and unusual and unexpected were the norm. From calmer pursuits like Jeopardy and Scrabble to more active hijinks, Stevie was an exciting companion. There was a year or two when I never knew who would be in my house when I woke up - one time it was four dove hunters meeting in the middle of the night, another morning it was members of an English rugby team sleeping on every inch of floor space, and more often a short but loud "quacker" was bouncing in the door. Crazy Albert was a great friend with a heart of gold. He spent 6 months "guarding" us during the months after the Klan-Nazi shoot-out. Long drives to rugby tournaments, trips to weddings far and near, and visiting him in NY provide many great memories and funny stories. Late nights on Thanksgiving and Christmas after all the familiy "doings" were over, and unexpected appearances at beach trips are a few of the moments from which I will remember him. There is a generation or two of kids who will think of Albert every time a quack is heard. Then there is the time his rabbit ate my baby gate! No matter which "list" you were on, Albert will be missed. Carolyn, we loved him so much. QUACK! Nona Pryor (Greensboro, NC ) February 23, 2006 - I will never forget when Albert and a bunch of his Rugby friends showed up at my front door in Union, NJ on their way to a game. He enjoyed telling everyone the first words when I opened the door was "Oh No, it's Albert"!. He was a good friend and helped me through a tough time with his no nonsense advice. He will always be remembered in my heart for his fun loving ways, his passion and his most unusual take on life. His Northern friend, JoAnne Latham (Virginia Beach, VA ) marfretusa@aol.com February 21, 2006 - Pam Rolfe introduced me to Albert and I'll never forget her saying "You will either love him or you really won't". I loved him. Albert was special and I will miss him. Alice Markstrom (Annandale, MN ) February 21, 2006 - A special friend,one that will always be remembered for the zest he brought to life. With Our Deepest Regrets! Ed & Sherry Westerlund (Holland, MI ) sdwest@chartermi.net February 21, 2006 - Albert was a true individual, and will be sorely missed by a great many people. I will miss all of the great talks (arguments ?) we had riding to Chapel Hill; his letters to the editors; watching ballgames with him; drinking a beer with him at the Dockside; his 3 annual parties, especially the ACC Friday one; seeing him on the beach; calling him and hearing his familiar "Quack"; having him call me with some off-the-wall question or request; hearing his duck hunting or skiing stories at the MOI; and oh, so much more! He was so many things to so many people, and we will grieve for him for a long time. Carolyn, my heart goes out to you - you have my deepest sympathy. Please know that your son was dearly loved by many, many people. And yes, Albie, the goat (I can't use your description of Molly's UNC ram on this site) went to your funeral! So rest in peace, dear friend, and Quack to you.Emily Bridgman (Wilmington, NC ) emilydb1953@msn.com February
20, 2006 - We were shocked and saddened to hear about Albert. His special wit
touched everyone and I was proud to have called him a friend. Albert was one
of those unique individuals that lived his life like he played his Rugby...fearlessly
and with passion. He was an example for us all. You will be with us always.
Cheers...until we meet again. Skip & Karen Ruzicka (Memphis, TN ) sruzicka@aol.com February 20, 2006 - Albert left our house one time and my young daughter asked me if he was really their uncle. After a pause I said yes, not by blood but by friendship. When you were in his house he made you feel like family and when he was in yours, the feeling was the same. He was a special friend that will be missed dearly.Jeff Herndon (Greensboro) February
20, 2006 - Albert would have enjoyed the "send off" we gave him on
Saturday. It was his kind of day - a progressive party with people he loved.
We miss him greatly! At the Morrow Beach House, we will miss his wake up calls
-"It's glass. I'll meet you at the dock in 10 minutes. Quack!" We
will NEVER stop expecting him to drop by for a cold beer or a hot meal. He was
Uncle Albert to our sons-they loved him and he loved them. We will miss him
every day for the rest of ALL of our lives. Never thought we could miss one
crazy sound so much...QUACK! February 18, 2006 - Carolyn, my deepest condolences and Prayers are with you, your family and friends at this time. Love Mary McKee (Danville, VA ) February 18, 2006 - You made a difference Albert: you became a fixture with my family all those years ago; you introduced me to Pam; when Samuel and Hudson met you for one day in '03 you captivated them; you once woke the mother of a friend by quacking loudly in your sleep; I loved arguing with you; go make 'em laugh wherever you are. John Rolfe (High Wycombe) johnrolfe@radnage.f9.co.uk
February 18, 2006 - I grew up with Albert and he introduced me to John, an English
Rugby player who has been my friend and husband for 24 years. We have two teenage
sons who Albert hosted on our last visit to him and gave my English family a
superb North Caroina Beach day! He was involved with so many people from different
walks and will be with us always. February 18, 2006 - We were so sorry to hear the news about Albert. He was a good man. He was a wonderful coach to the UNCG Women's RFC. We had fun touring England with Albert and the Avenging Mallards. He did a lot for the sport of rugby. He was a friend, and he will be missed. Neither
time, distance nor death dim close friendships. Albert was a very unique individual.
He lived life to the fullest, and brought a smile to all those around him. He
didn't tolerate fools gladly; he spoke up and stood up for people and things
he believed in. Albert will always be as close as the next thought to those
of us who loved him. He isn't really gone; he's just playing for a different
team now. February
17, 2006 - I was stunned to hear about Albert's passing...he was the one who
introduced Mary Kelly (Tasker) and I to each other...he was a true friend, fun
to be with, an excellent Rugby Player (although he thought he could kick and
some us of begged to differ)and arranged the trip of the Mallards to England
in 1981. He will be missed and I will think of him always. February 17, 2006 - Albert was a tremendous supplier through RU Limited to the North Carolina State Ports Authority. He became a true partner in delivering our needs and always ensuring we were 100% satisfied. On behalf of NCSPA our deepest condolences to family & friends, we mourn your loss with you. R.Koch- Director Human Resources (Wilmington, NC) rick_koch@ncports.com February 17, 2006 - Having lived less than 15 ft away from Albert for the last four years it's really strange. I quit trying to figure Albert out because there was no comparison. Sunday nights he would walk in the front door and say "whats for dinner". I'll never forget the time he brought over some fireworks (roman candles). We were on the deck, we each lit our fuse just about the time a Wrightsville Cop turns the corner, all we could do was finish what we started, Emily ran in the house and we continued to fire, Albert talked our way out of it, he was good at that...Albert never talked much about himself, but you can tell allot about a person by the company he keeps. He sure had some great friends. It's been 3 days and not much better. We sure will miss him. Matt Farrell (Wrightsville)
February 17, 2006 - I only knew Albert for a little while, but learned a great deal from him in that time. He was funny, a great teacher, an inspiration and a lot of fun. I was shocked to see that he had left us so early. I know a multitude of people will truly miss him. Christine Wright (Reidsville, NC ) February 17, 2006 - UNCG rugby is forever indebted to Albert. Thank you for helping pave the way. Marty Coward (Wake Forest, NC ) mcoward@nando.com
February 17, 2006 - Albert touched the lives of many with his humor and mostly
by being a good friend. Wrightsville Beach will never be the same without him.
I will miss him. February
16, 2006 - Albert lived with great passion. He was an incredible friend. You
knew he loved you if he yelled at you. I grew up at Wrightsville Beach. We water-skiied
together and had more laughs than I can remember. I will always love and cherish
my memories of Albert. I am a much better person for having had the privilege
of calling "Albie" my friend. All of the women had secret crushes
on him. Thank You God for giving us Albert. None of us was prepared to lose
him. Thank you "Albie" for everything you did when I lost my mother.
We lost an institution when we lost you. We gained the world by loving you. Want to add a Note? Email: guestbook@rultd.org
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