9/4/2020 Samantha B Conley
Sharon, MA, United States
I am very sorry for your loss and I am devastated to hear about Coach Conway's passing. He was an amazing coach who helped me find my love for running. He was a true mentor me to in my four years of running for SHS and, always looked forward to seeing him when I came from college. Besides being an amazing coach he was a true comedian. To this day I still tell his nun joke. I wish I could pay my respects in person. I hope to get together with other Sharon alumni and start a fundraiser and scholarship in his honor. Again, I want to send my condolences to the entire Conway family. - Samantha Conley SHS 2015

9/5/2020 Derek Rose
Plainville, Massachusetts, United States
I coached track against Alan. He was a great guy and someone I looked forward to seeing at track meets. He was genuine and funny. He would give me a heads on this that my athletes were doing even if we were opponents that day. I will truly miss seeing him and joking with him. Very sorry for your loss. -Derek Rose

9/5/2020 Dwight Estey
North Attleboro, MA,
Though we coached separate teams, I never felt we were rivals. Alan always greeted me with a smile and he meant it. He was definitely one of the "great ones." I last met him randomly on Main Street, Chatham in the fall and as always it was just fun to catch up and share stories. This came as such a shock. My heartfelt sympathy is with Ruth, his family his and extended Sharon Track family. God bless you Alan.

9/5/2020 Erica Laidler
Sharon, MA, USA
I recently saw a photo of Coach Conway grinning, mid-chuckle, and I realized it is how he appears in nearly every one of my most vivid memories of him. I don’t know how he did it, but he was always upbeat and cheerful, cracking jokes and making an effort to know everyone on the team. Of course, there was the soothingly practical side of him too; even when everything else felt overwhelmingly chaotic and hanging on by a thread you could always count on Coach Conway’s team announcements and emails, well organized and cheerful, with race dates and upcoming fundraisers. They were always clear and reliable, removed from the issues we might have been panicking about at the time, which were, in the scheme of things, really going to be all right. And you couldn’t help but feel that way when you were around him, that things would be perfectly okay - and that actually, they already were. I know that I could mention Conway to any SHS track/cross-country alum at all, and it is comforting to know we share a very similar image of him, that we would know what he meant to all of us without having to say a word. Being around Conway meant feeling safe and cheerful. It was always pleasant, whether it was chatting while picking up your race bib and extra pins, helping time mile splits at Reggie when you were too injured to run, or just hanging out on the track or bleachers laughing about the nun joke or the trials and tribulations of his days as a pole vaulter, imagining him catapulting across the sky. I can only imagine the incredible number of people his steady, good natured, loyal, funny, dedicated, and loving self touched during his years as a coach. It is crazy to think one person could affect so many. He was such a central figure for us during a turbulent, transformative period of our lives, and I think all of us who he coached feel a surreal grief at his loss and gratitude that we got to know him and experience the vivid warmth he brought to our lives. I remember once when a bunch of us were running near Borderland and supposed to meet Coach, he popped up and assured us his car was “right around the bend”, so we laughed, agreed, and started running with him towards it. We kept running and running. “Coach!” We all were laughing in wonder. “Just how far away is this car?” “Just around the bend” ended up being more like a mile. He truly loved running, and people. His commitment to the parts of his life he valued was inspiring to all of us. In Sharon I would still see him around town after graduating, volunteering at the fireworks, coaching at the track, or just passing by on the streets we grew up running on. To many of us, Coach Conway is SHS track/cross-country, even more so than the track itself, and will always be a big part of Sharon and of home. His dedication to his town, team, family, and friends provided support and inspiration to so many, and he will live on.

9/5/2020 Mitch Blaustein
Canton, MA,
I met Alan I can’t remember how long ago at SHS basketball games as a fan. Then as track coach I visited often. Had fun when Alan and I went together to the Sharon Super Bowl win and more recently at the Temple Sinai plays. As a fellow Newtonite we spoke of the olden days often. I’ll miss his smile!

9/5/2020 Michael Baugh
Stoughton, MA, United States
I know Coach Conway through observation. Only in the last two seasons did I talk to him. What I observed was that coach that all the athletes went to for help, encouragement, spikes, numbers, pins and sympathy. He was a caring man to his athletes. In talking to him, he portrayed humor, kindness and compassion towards me. I even confided to him some troubles on a bad day and he heard me. I am grateful for that. I am sorry for your loss and for the loss to track and field.

9/5/2020 Daniel Carson
Sharon, MA, United States
Coach, you will be missed so much. You were always there for the Sharon Track Team no matter time, weather, or place. No matter what the players were your top priority. In our interview for the school paper you told me how happy you were that an indoor track was built because of how much safer it would be for the team. I’m going to miss you so much. Sorry I never turned in my uniform. Carson

9/5/2020 John Sitnik
Stoughton, Ma.,
Sincere condolences to all family members.Spent many a early Saturday morning running with Al from the Sharon community center. Always upbeat, positive and a all round good guy to put down some miles with. His love of running transmitted to all that were in his presence.As a prior Mass. Track and Field Official I have seen that first hand.All the old Sharon Roadrunners share my feelings.Al crossed his last finishing line yesterday, R I P Mon Ami ! John Sitnik

9/5/2020 Neil Crockett
Orcutt , CA, USA
I’m so sorry for my cousins and their families. Alan was too young to have this happen. I was glad I got to see Alan at a Birthday party I think was in Chestnut Hill, MA. just a few years ago. Rest In Peace cousin Alan......

9/5/2020 Meaghan Connolly
Sharon, MA, USA
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Coach Conway’s positivity and encouragement not only lifted up those around him, but also constantly inspired others to follow his example. No matter what, Coach Conway’s smile never wavered. I’ll never forget the time I ran a PR in the 400 meters as a shy little freshman, and he was the first to congratulate me. It meant the world to me at the time, and it just shows how much he cared about each and every kid he coached. He was always there with a smile or a joke (My personal favorite: “What’s an Irish four course meal? A six pack and a potato!”) to soothe our nerves on the bus ride to a big meet, or cheer us up after a loss. I’m really going to miss seeing him around Sharon, because he always stopped to talk whenever he saw me. I can’t begin to imagine how many lives he touched during his time as a coach, because even during my four short years in the track program, that number was in the hundreds. And I am so, so grateful that my life was one of them. My thoughts are with you and your family during this time of tremendous loss. Those of us who were lucky enough to learn from Coach Conway will never forget him.

9/5/2020 Jim Hoar
South Yarmouth , MA, United States
I’m very saddened to hear about Alan’s passing. He was a true gentleman- generous with his time - always looking out for the best interests of all athletes . He was a classy - kind hearted man. He will be truly missed by many coaches and athletes. His legacy will be felt for many years to come. Sending many prayers and positive thoughts to his entire family God Bless Jimmy Hoar. MSTCA. Dennis Yarmouth HS

9/5/2020 Beverly Kahn
White Plains, New York, USA
To the Family of Alan - and especially to my old friend Dana - I send my heartfelt sympathies. The bonds of friendship formed during our teenage years in Newton, in the Methodist Youth Fellowship, and in adventures on Cape Cod endured - even though distance has kept us apart. Alan was such a kind and fun person who will be missed greatly. May sweet memories of Alan through the years comfort you all and help you smile. With compassion, Beverly (Rich) Kahn

9/5/2020 Debra Yee
Sharon, MA, United States
My friend and neighbor for the last nine years. Alan always took time to walk my dog, cut my lawn and be my friend. Alan will be missed on those snowy days when we worked so hard to battle the storms - he was always there shoveling away. We will continue to water your flowers, mow your lawn and bring in those red canna lilies that you love so much (They don't survive the winter months!). We will remember to plant the sunflowers that always made you smile! You will always be in our heart. Rest in peace and good wishes on your next adventure.

9/5/2020 John Carroll
Falmouth, MA, USA
Sorry to hear that Alan has passed away. He was a strong coach for Sharon over the years and a leader in the league. He will be missed by his athletes, both present and past.

9/5/2020 Vaniea Amin
Sharon , MA, USA
Coach Conway you will be missed . We were so lucky to have you as our Coach . My condolences to the family.

9/6/2020 Alan Post
Sharon, MA, USA
Dear Ruth and family, I really enjoyed getting to know Alan. It was a pleasure working with Alan on the house. And Ruth, you and Alan always made me feel so at home at your home. I will miss Alan. And Ruth, you know I will be there to help if need be. Ruth, please know you have my sincere condolences. You and Alan made a wonderful life and family together. Now it's time to take what you and Alan have done and carry on from there. He is counting on you. Best wishes. Alan Post

9/6/2020 LOUIS J DITTAMI
MILFORD, MA,
Coach I will miss your warmth and smile. You brought out the best in all of us.

9/6/2020 Mark Young
Topsfield, MA,
Alan and I were track teammates and classmates at Newton South. Good kid back then, fine man in adulthood. My sister and his (Joan) were best friends for a long time. My condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren and siblings.

9/6/2020 brian hall
Atlantic Beach, FL, United States
I am so sorry to hear of Alan's passing. I'd known Alan for 38 years from our John Hancock lunchtime group through coaching at Sharon and he was the same kind and thoughtful person in every endeavour. I feel fortunate to have been a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and athletes.

9/6/2020 Dave & Mary White
BROCKTON, MA, United States
Ruth and family, Alan was such a wonderful and supportive friend and we are so very sorry to learn of his passing. We are keeping you and your family in our prayers at this time of loss. Dave & Mary White

9/6/2020 Maria Gieg
Sharon, MA, United States
Coach Conway was a wonderful role model and source of support for me and my teammates. I always admired that he seemed to connect with everyone he met in such a genuine and positive way, and it was clear from the way he spoke about his family and friends that he cared for them so deeply. Seeing Coach never failed to lift my spirits - I loved hearing his jokes and getting the rundown on his upcoming plays, and even just spotting him running around town. Coach Conway will always be a part of home for me. I am so, so grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know him, learn from him, and hear his lovely stories. My sincerest condolences to you and your family, my thoughts are with you.

9/6/2020 Jen Teahan
Westwood, MA,
Coach Conway always greeted me with a warm smile and big hug! He was the kindest, friendliest soul and I cherished his ability to welcome and include. He was always happy and gentle and it was such a privilege to be in his presence. I have had the chance to coach alongside Coach Conway for years and have witnessed first-hand his gift to connect with his athletes, other coaches, parents, officials; it was admirable. I will forever love you Coach Conway - I sincerely thank you for your unconditional love of people and our sport. You brought out the best in everyone and left the world better for having you in it! Forever loving you, my friend!

9/6/2020 Ronald Grigg Jr
Jacksonville, FL, United States
Rest in peace Coach Conway, your love of running was inspirational.

9/6/2020 Kathryn A. Irwin
Spring Hill, FL, USA
My sincerest sorrow for this loss to your family.. Last time I saw Alan was at the 2011 Oak Hill Park Reunion. I'm so glad I got to see so many people there. But he stood out to talk to me about my mother telling him to stay with the John Hancock Insurance company, That it had great incentives & he would be able to retire young enough to enjoy it. I guess in their early days at John Hancock they rode the once an hour bus to the trollies & then back home. He held my mother in high regards. It was a sweet thing for him to share. Like my brother before him they leave a legacy behind for all of us to take to heart. Hold each of your family members, life is not a trial run, it's for keeps. I'm sure Alan is at PEACE!

9/6/2020 Sarah Pasternack
Westwood, MA, United States
Dear Ruth and Family, I extend my deepest sympathy to you. I will remember Alan as kind person who was always willing to help others. It was always good to see both of you at Our Lady of Sorrows masses. May the love you shared, which is eternal, stay with you. May he rest in peace.

9/6/2020 Mrs. Valerie Hampton and Mrs. Kattie Coleman
Stoughton, Ma., USA
Many times a word of pray is all one can give another, So we're sending our prays to you and yours. May God give you all that you need in your time of sorrow.

9/6/2020 Bobbi DeFrancisco
Sharon, MA, United States
I met Alan and Ruth shortly after Jillian and John began dating as young teens. Eleven years ago I was blessed to have them become my family. Alan was always smiling, always telling stories and jokes, always kind. I will miss him at our shared family events but will treasure the times that we all had.

9/6/2020 “June Anne” Gillis-Ahern
Stoughton , MA, USA
I know I speak for everyone that knew Alan when I say he truly was the kindest, most generous, caring person I know. I will miss his wit and bigger than life personality. I was fortunate to grow up right next door to Ruth, Alan and the kids (my cousins). I have many fond memories of swimming in their pool, long walks to Spring Valley Country Club, Sledding, Bike Riding, Making Snow Cones with Real Snow and Zarex, Family Parties, Handmade Christmas Ornaments that Alan cut from wood that Ruth would paint with our names and the years on them plus all of the amazing postcards from places you visited. My thoughts are especially with Ruth, Kenny, Sue, Johnny and all of the grandkids that have lost this remarkable person far too soon. Thank you for always being there for me and my mom. We will always love and remember you Uncle Alan.

9/7/2020 Len Zandrow
Sharon, Massachusetts,
We first met Alan and his family at Our Lady of Sorrows. He and I served on the Parish Pastoral Council, and Alan assumed a leadership role in the parish's administration and facilities. He was a true community leader in his skillful and understated manner and provided a great example of Christian service. The family's children helped babysit our boys as they were growing up. Alan took a special interest in our son Eric's track activities though he competed against SHS at Xaverian. He was also a great supporter of community theater. Always kind and generous with his time, we will miss him until we meet again as we hope in the next life with our Lord. May God bless and comfort his family!

9/7/2020 Irene Stoller
Sharon, MA, USA
Our whole family got to know Alan really well over the years. There’s a lot of down-time at track meets and the time always passed quickly when he was telling one of his many funny stories. He cared so much about all of the kids on the team and was so passionate about his coaching. In recent years, when any of us would see him around town, he always stopped to chat and catch up and was genuinely interested in hearing how everyone was doing. We will all feel his loss deeply. Condolences to the family, may his memory be a blessing.

9/7/2020 Sharon Ingala
Mansfield, Massachusetts, United States
Dear Ruth, I am sad to read that Alan passed away. My prayers are with you and your Children. Sharon Ingala Psalms 62:7-8

9/7/2020 David White
Brockton, MA, USA
Besides having been my cross country and track teammate in High School, once I moved to this area he became my best friend. When twice after surgery I was unable to tend my garden or cut my lawn, Alan,without being asked did so. I regret that I was not needed to reciprocate, but then Alan was blessed with two wonderful sons in the area. I still can't believe that he is gone.

9/7/2020 Jeanne Roulleau
Stoughton, MA, United States
Ruth and kids, I am sorry to hear of Al's passing. I remember him from the good old days at OLOS as a smiling,kind soul. All my sincere sympathy, Jeanne Roulleau

9/7/2020 Geoff Hennessy
Quincy, MA,
Shocked at Alan's passing. As a hockomock league official and MSTCA E-Board member it was always a joy to work with Alan. His dry wit and optimism was appreciated by all.

9/7/2020 Rebecca watson
Brewster, MA, United States
Sorry, to hear of Alan's passing. The Conway family was a big part of my life growing up. I knew Alan through his sister,Joan,my best friend. I recall fondly Alan with a friendly Hi, talking with us + inquiring about me + my family. Alan shared a common interest with my brother, Mark of Track. My sincere sympathy to his wife Ruth, children and grandchildren, sisters Anne, June & brother Dana. I pray you find strength and comfort in this time of need today and always.

9/8/2020 John & Carol Reilly
Sharon, MA, United States
It is with most heavy hearts that we pass along our sincerest condolences on the passing of Coach Conway. Coaches, like teachers, come in and out of our lives like busboys in a restaurant. You usually don’t get to know them very well, any more than they get to know you, but Al was different. I suppose young athletes often believe in their coaches but only if you were really lucky, perhaps once in your lifetime, you came across a coach who believed in you. Al always believed in his kids, and he influenced generations of young athletes with his wise words, his dry humor and his kind heart. And, when you think about it, what better legacy is there than to be remembered by hundreds and hundreds of student-athletes, as a Coach who believed in you. John & Carol Reilly

9/8/2020 John S Maslanka
Sharon, MA, United States
Dear Ruth, Ken, Susan and John, Lauretta and I are very sad to hear of the pasing of your Dad, Al Conway. He was such a woderful erson, and we always enjoyed his company when we were with him. We hop that you hve many hppy memories of him. God bless you during this difficult time and stay well. John and Lauretta Maslanka

9/9/2020 Samuel A Berkman
SANTA MONICA, CA, US
Track teammate of Alan's at newton South high School. Never could keep up with him. Very Strong runner, gentle person. Very easy to be around. One of these guys with nothing to prove

9/9/2020 linda and paul johnson
North Eastham, mass 02651,
allan. we love you and will always miss you

9/9/2020 Joan Lezar Engel
West Roxbury , MA, USA
I am so very sorry for your loss. He was a blessing to all who met him. We were friends in high school..

9/9/2020 Bob Wolfe
Valley Stream, New York, USA
My condolences to the whole family for your loss. Alan was special, good, kind, caring, generous selfless and above all, a great friend. He will be missed. May he run in heaven forever!

9/10/2020 Kathy Connolly
Sharon, MA, United States
I cannot express enough how fortunate I am to have known Alan Conway. He was a great person with a big heart.As you go through life, there are some people who make a difference and who will never be forgotten. Alan, with his smile, comforting manner,kindness, genuineness,and love of life, was one of those people.Whenever I saw Alan, my day was a better one for it. With his dedication, hard work and passion as a Cross Country/Track and Field coach, he became a great mentor to many, many, many, athletes. As a parent, his emails were crucial and welcoming.Whether running into Alan at a cross country meet, track meet,sports banquet,volunteering at the Father Bullock Road Race, the 4th of July, or even at the grocery store, he was always a pleasure to chat with. His smile, jokes, and laughing manner put a smile on everyone's face. I will surely miss my buddy, my pal. My deepest sympathies to his family. Cherish those memories and hold him dear to your hearts,to keep him close by.

9/10/2020 Paula and Dave Crocker
Litchfield, NH,
Dear Ruth, Sue, Ken and John and grandchildren, our condolences on the loss of your beloved husband, father and grandfather. We remember Alan as loving his family and enjoying the good things life offered. We will miss him too. Paula and Dave Crocker

9/10/2020 Kevin McGuire
Salem, MA, United States
I knew Alan over many years at JH,and in the many years we were members of the JH retirement club. A genuinely nice, funny guy.

9/10/2020 Brenda Minihan
Sharon , ,
Dear Ruth, I am shocked to read today’s email from OLOS that Al had died. My heartfelt condolences to you and the children. He was always there since CCD with the kids and running into each other in the parking lot before Mass trying to catch up and then comparing notes as Patrick and Al were both high school cross country coaches. God bless you all. You’re in my prayers. Stay safe. Brenda Minihan

9/10/2020 Peg & Frank LaBollita
Canton, Ma,
We are sorry to hear of Allen’s sickness and sudden passing. Although we didn’t know him except by sitting behind you both at OLOS, his Obit. told about a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and a dedicated marathon runner. Our sincere condolences.

9/10/2020 Dick and Bev Hagen
Canton, Ma, USA
Dick and I would like to extend our deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband Alan. We are from Canton and we only know you through OLOS. We sat behind you at the 4:30 Mass on Saturdays. So very sorry to you and your family for your sudden loss. Dick and Bev Hagen

9/10/2020 Shel Schenkler
Orchard Park, NY, United States
I had the utmost respect for Alan - as a family man always wanting the best for his children and grandchildren; as a professional working hard at John Hancock for almost 40 years; as a coach fully committed to the student athletes; and as a gentleman so easy to converse with. We will miss you Alan.

9/12/2020 Martine Bastien and Jada Johnson
West Roxbury, MA, MA, 02132
To The Conway Family, We are so sorry for your loss. We were sadden to hear about Alan’s sudden passing. He was such a great coach to my daughter(Jada Johnson). We will miss hearing his stories & seeing him pull out a snickers bar to eat at ever track meet. He was a kind and selfless person.

9/13/2020 Harvey Blonder
Canton, MA, United States
So sad for Alan's passing. I challenge anyone to find someone who didn't like him. Our coaching careers crossed paths for 3 seasons each year for probably close to ten years. Stoughton and Sharon cross country and track programs often worked together over the years - a great loss for all of us.

9/14/2020 Victoria Yampolsky
Sharon, MA, United States
Dear Ruth and other members of the Conway family, I am privileged to have known Alan as a patient and a mentor for the past 12years. Alan advised me regarding my children, shared his travel adventures, and told me about the history of Sharon. I always looked forward to his eye exams. He loved his family, neighbors, and students deeply. Alan always saw the best qualities in people and always offered his help. Please accept my deepest condolences for your family's loss. Alan will be greatly missed! Warm regards, Victoria Yampolsky

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