Resident of Los Gatos, CA

Alfred Ira “Al” Matthews passed away peacefully at his home in Los Gatos, CA on Tuesday, March 21st. He was 92 years old and had lived as a paraplegic since 2013 due a spinal cord stroke. Born in Mountain View, CA in 1930, his family moved to Monterey to work in the fish canneries during the Depression.

Al became a local football hero at Monterey High School, Monterey Peninsula College, and San Jose State.

After a brief stint in the NFL with the Chicago Cardinals, he became a high school teacher and coach for 35 years, where he was adored by his players as a mentor in both sports and in life. After retiring from teaching, he was recruited by his friend from San Jose State, the great Bill Walsh, to come to Stanford University to work as Director of Stanford Football Operations from 1992 to 1994.

Al will be remembered for his undying passion for education, his tenderness with children, his love for dogs, and his steadfast dedication to his family. Few will remember his greatness, but many will cherish his kindness and will be forever enriched by the experience of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held at the Los Gatos United Methodist Church on April 5th at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations in Al’s memory can be sent to Paralyzed Veterans of America at pva.org. For more information visit: darlingandfischerchapelofthehills.com