REV. AL MUIR 1950 – 2023

People Helping People

Al Muir was a lot of things, to a lot of people. Father (to Peggy and Sarah), friend to so many, Reverend (nondenominational, of course), listener, Veteran (two tours in Vietnam), builder, mentor, cake lover (pie would suffice), fixer of all things and a riotous raconteur. The cat could tell a tale. Hilarious and spellbinding, his drawl and cadence were, well, uh….one of a kind. He was my number one running mate, go-to friend, ride or die kinda guy, who would be there to help me out, no matter what was going down. If I was in a tight spot, he was the first person I’d call. And I called him hundreds of times over the past 24 years. It’ll take me all my remaining years to pass on the favors that he’s done for me.

When and Where

But I wasn’t the sole beneficiary of his unselfish will and his deep resolve to help others. Far from it. He was a big brother, father figure and friend to scores of folks who’ve worked shoulder to shoulder with him for over two decades at the Joshua Tree Music Festival. He loved this community so much that he moved here permanently in 2011. His largesse went beyond the JTMF fam; he also worked with the dynamic duo (Robyn Celia and Linda Krantz) at Pappy and Harriet’s and with the Karl family of Integratron fame.

“Rev Al was an incredible friend and brother, leaving a lasting impact with his strength and love. We cherish his memory and the profound influence he had on our lives.” Joanne Karl, Integratron

When the Mojave Rattle Skaters roller derby team formed in 2012, Al became their biggest supporter. “He never missed a bout, helped with drills, set up and break down, and boosted morale just by being there.” Chris Feltges (skater)

“Al was the most dependable person on the team, and he was our biggest fan and cheerleader.” Shea Cline (skater)

Al quietly helped so many. I would call him from time to time if I knew of someone in need. A senior who’s swamp cooler needed repair, medical emergencies, roof caved in, homelessness, addiction, death and more. Each time I’d explain the situation, and what was needed and why. Trying to sell him on rallying to lend a hand (which was not necessary). These calls happened so often, that when I started explaining the sitch, he’d cut me short with, “when and where.” The details were unimportant, he was down to help. If I continued to ramble on, I’d get “uh, I uh, already said put me in coach.”

Rev Al – You talkin to me? by Paul Moeller

Al Muir by Sandra Goodin

Rev Al and daughter Peggy Muir by Paul Moeller

Best Day of My Life, Thanks for Asking.

Al could turn someone’s day around with those eight words. I witnessed this so many times. Someone would ask “how’s it going?”, and he’d give that reply in a truly earnest fashion, with wide eyes and smile. He’d pick his spots to use this reply, dropping it on someone who was a bit down, not feeling their best, or could use a pick me up. That person was immediately uplifted a few notches, and Al would then unfurl a story with an underlying theme of, ‘It’s a good day to be alive, regardless of the s***storm that may be swirling about’. He’d turn the beat around. A positive psychological warrior out there doing the good work.

“There are few souls who embody compassion and love like my beloved Rev. I ache to lose him and will treasure him always. And so, I read and remember his last words to me. ‘My cup of love for you is never half full. It always overflows.’ Til we meet again, Rev.”
Nancy Karl, Integratron

May his lessons in love live on inside all who knew the Rev.

Email jtmusicfest@gmail.com for details regarding Als memorial on December 9th and his estate sale December 8th and 9th.