Alexander Robert Garland, Sr.

Born in Mount Kisco, New York, Al moved to Naples, Florida, in 1965, where he built a remarkable life defined by hard work, adventure, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to family and friends.

In 1965, Al and his brother, Joe, moved their families to Naples, where all nine family members, including their parents, lived together in Vanderbilt Beach while building a new future. That same year, the brothers founded Garland & Garland Marine Construction. Soon afterward, they developed and built a seasonal motel on Vanderbilt Beach, (“The Gulfwinds”) where the two families lived and worked together while wives, Louise and Wanda welcomed seasonal guests. Garland & Garland Marine Construction grew into one of Southwest Florida's most respected marine contractors and continues today under the leadership of Al's son, Alex Jr., a legacy spanning three generations.

Although he never truly retired, those who knew Al understood that his greatest joys were found in his family, his friendships, and the life he built alongside his beloved wife, Louise. Married for 64 years, Al and Louise shared a love rooted in devotion, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Even after Louise entered memory care, Al never missed a single day of visiting with her. He believed love was something you showed, and he lived that belief every day.

Al was a builder in every sense of the word. He designed and built homes, restored antique airplanes and helicopters, built automobiles from the ground up, and was happiest with a new project to tackle. Whether flying those airplanes, restoring a classic car, driving his beloved Model A, or checking another item off his bucket list, Al embraced life with enthusiasm and invited everyone around him to do the same.

He loved a good cigar, a favorite whiskey, telling stories, making people laugh, and turning neighbors into lifelong friends. Every man was "Lad." Every child had a nickname.

If you knew Al, chances are you have a story about him... and he'd probably tell it better.

To his children, he was Pop. To his grandchildren, he was Pok. He was their storyteller, encourager, prankster, teacher, and biggest fan. His love wasn't complicated. It was constant.

When people speak of Al, one sentence seems to come up again and again: "He was the best man I ever knew."

Al joined Naples North Rotary Club in 1970 and at his passing was the longest continually serving member of this club. His commitment to service reflected the values by which he lived.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and LaBelle Garland, and his brothers, Joseph and Theodore Garland.

Al is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Louise McBride Garland; his daughter, Shawn Garland and Shawn’s life partner Larry Parker and her (2) children, Allie Foster and Zach Foster. And his son, Alex Garland Jr. and wife Kristina Garland, and their (2) daughters, Alexis Garland Zuk, and her husband Ben Zuk and Kyleigh Garland; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless dear friends. Also, his beloved dog, Peppy II, who was never far from his side and brought him endless joy.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Al's extraordinary life on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort. This will be a come-and-go celebration of a life well lived, filled with laughter, memories, and storytelling, just as Al would have wanted.

In true Al fashion, guests are encouraged to wear his iconic black jeans, arrive in their favorite vehicle, and, in lieu of flowers, bring a favorite photograph, funny story, or treasured memory to share.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Naples North Rotary Club Scholarship Fund, continuing Al's lifelong commitment to helping others and investing in future generations. (Naples North Rotary Club Inc, PO Box 1307, Naples, FL 34106-1307)

Al built things that lasted. He built a successful business, enduring friendships, a loving family, and a life filled with adventure, laughter, and generosity. Most of all, he showed up. For his wife. For his family. For his friends. For his neighbors. For his community. Day after day, year after year.

If life can be measured by the memories we create and the lives we touch, Alexander Robert Garland, Sr. lived an extraordinary one.